Pregnancy is a time of great joy in a woman’s life. It brings about a lot of changes in her emotional and physical state. During this time, an active woman will like nothing better than to continue doing things as normally as possible. However, there are some activities which could prove to be dangerous for both the mom and the little one inside her womb.

If you’re pregnant, stay clear of these activities to enjoy a healthy and happy pregnancy.

Physical Activities to Avoid during Pregnancy

Although exercising and light activities are recommended during pregnancy, there are some activities that are best avoided when you’re expecting. These are some of them.

1. Heavyweight Training

Women who perform heavyweight training activities should refrain from doing so during pregnancy. Lifting heavy weights can strain your back and pelvis, and can also lead to leaking. It may also cause prolapse where the uterus slips into the vagina. In case you need to lift something heavy, try to hold it closer to your body while bending your knees slowly, and avoid involving the back or twist while lifting. Women who have had a miscarriage in the past must refrain from weight training altogether.

2. Exercises that require lying on stomach

Lying on the stomach is not advisable at any point during pregnancy. Not only is this position extremely uncomfortable, it has the potential to also injure the baby, especially after the first trimester. Even a small injury can have a big impact on you and your baby. Therefore, if you must, try modifying your exercise or avoid this position altogether. Talk to our doctors to know more about the right exercises for you during pregnancy.

3. Rides in Amusement Parks

This one is pretty basic and an absolute no during pregnancy. Amusement parks are best avoided when you’re expecting. The rapid, jerky motions of a roller-coaster and other similar rides can harm both you and your baby. It can also cause more nausea and dizziness which can also cause other complications.

4. Certain Yoga Positions

Although yoga may be beneficial during pregnancy, there are some positions that require a lot of stretching and twisting, and must be avoided altogether. Closed twists, belly down postures, full inversions, and backbends are some positions to avoid. Whether you are new to yoga or have been practicing for a while, make sure you talk to your doctor before continuing it during pregnancy. You can also attend prenatal yoga classes which help pregnant women carry out yoga positions that are not harmful to them.

5. Cycling

While some expecting women may continue riding a cycle until their second trimester, it may not be a great idea for other pregnant women who are not used to riding. As the pregnancy progresses, the center of balance shifts, making it difficult to cycle. Riding in crowded roads may also not be as safe. However, riding a stationary bike until the second trimester may be ok for women who want to get some physical activity.

6. High Impact Aerobics

High impact aerobics can increase the likelihood of falling and injuring joints and ligaments that balance the body. Even seasoned professionals should avoid aerobics during their second and third trimesters. At this time, the ligaments tend to become loose and are more susceptible to injury.

7. Rigorous Activities

When you’re pregnant, time to take it easy and avoid any rigorous activity. If you want to exercise, restrict it to your home or at a nearby gym. Try only light exercises with the air condition on, to avoid overheating. Make sure that your heart rate is below 140 beats per minute and the temperature below 102 degrees. If you feel exhausted or tired, stop and take plenty of rest. But always remember to ask your doctor before trying any physical activity.

8. Water-based activities

Avoid any intense water-based activities such as swimming, scuba diving or snorkeling etc. during your pregnancy. When you surface over water, there are chance of air bubbles to form in your bloodstream, putting you and your baby at risk. Activities such as surfing and water-skiing also have an increased risk of falls and injury, and are best avoided during pregnancy. The decompression during scuba diving could also adversely affect your baby.

9. Sports like Tennis

Women who have been playing tennis regularly can continue playing it through the first trimester of their pregnancy. A woman’s body balance changes from the second trimester on, which greatly increases the risk of a fall or an injury. Hence, such sports should be avoided during pregnancy.

10. Running and Jogging

Running and jogging may be good for you if you have been in the habit. But it might not be a good idea to start a fresh running or jogging routine during your pregnancy. It is always better to walk than run or jog, as you may not lose control over your speed and have lesser chances of injury.

It is important to be physically active during pregnancy as it prevents complications and ensures that your body is ready for labor. However, a pregnant woman should take proper precautions while performing any physical activity. She needs to be careful in her movements, especially after the first trimester. Consult your doctor before you start any exercise or physical activity. Our expert team at KIMS Cuddles will help you with prenatal exercise routine to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy.

*Information shared here is for general purpose. Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.