Can I continue exercising during pregnancy?
May 23, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Sandra Siebert
Dear Doctor,
My name is Dirk Karpinski and I am currently in the 8th week of my pregnancy. I have always enjoyed doing sports and I would like to know if I can continue to exercise during pregnancy.
I have been regularly attending fitness classes and also enjoy jogging. However, I am now worried if it is still safe to do so, as I have heard that one should be cautious during pregnancy. I want to do the best for my unborn child and avoid any risks.
I am aware that it is important to listen to my body and watch out for warning signs such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or pain. But I would like to know from you as an expert if there are certain sports that I should avoid during pregnancy and if there are specific exercises that are particularly suitable for pregnant women.
Could you please give me advice on how to best adjust my exercise routine during pregnancy so that both my baby and I stay healthy?
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Dirk Karpinski
Dear Mr. Karpinski,
Thank you for your question regarding exercise during pregnancy. It is great to hear that you are so attentive and want the best for yourself and your unborn child. Exercise during pregnancy can indeed be very beneficial for both your physical and mental health. However, there are some things you should keep in mind to stay safe and healthy.
Generally, it is important to listen to your body and not overexert yourself. It is normal for your body to change during pregnancy, and you may not be able to perform at the same level as before. Therefore, it is advisable to adjust the intensity of your workouts and pay attention to warning signs such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or pain.
In terms of the types of sports you can engage in during pregnancy, light to moderate activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, or Pilates are usually recommended. These sports are gentle on your body and can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce stress.
However, there are also some sports that you should avoid during pregnancy. These include high-impact sports, contact sports, skydiving, scuba diving, and sports that carry a high risk of injury. It is important to consult with your doctor before starting a new sport to ensure that it is safe for you and your baby.
If you have been attending fitness classes, you can continue to do so as long as you adjust the intensity and listen to your body. When jogging, you may need to switch to a slower pace and run on softer surfaces like trails or treadmills to protect your joints.
Additionally, there are also special exercises that are particularly suitable for pregnant women, such as pelvic floor exercises, Kegel exercises, and exercises to strengthen the back. These exercises can help strengthen your muscles and alleviate back pain during pregnancy.
Overall, exercise during pregnancy is possible as long as you listen to your body, adjust the intensity, and stick to the recommended sports. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor beforehand to ensure that everything is okay and there are no risks.
I hope this information was helpful to you and wish you a healthy and happy pregnancy.
Best regards,
Sandra Siebert, Gynecologist
