main
> animals
> arts
> business
> computers
> electronics
> entertainment
> health
> hobbies
> home
> society
> sports
|
Running or jogging while pregnant
Is it safe to run or jog during pregnancy?
It depends. If you ran or jogged regularly before getting pregnant it’s fine to continue as long as you take some precautions. But pregnancy is not the time to start a running routine, according to Julie Tupler, a registered nurse, certified personal traine, and founder of Maternal Fitness, a fitness program for pregnant women and new moms in New York City. Whether you’re pregnant or not, running can be hard on your knees. And because your joints loosen during pregnancy, you’re more prone to injury. So unless you’re an avid runner, you should probably steer clear of this workout at least until after your baby arrives. Stick to walking or any other activity deemed safe for expectant beginner athletes.
What are the benefits of running during pregnancy?
Going for a jog is the quickest and most efficient way to work your heart and body, giving you a mental and physical boost when you feel tired. Plus, you can tailor it to your schedule — running 15 minutes one day when that’s all you have time for, and a half hour the next when your schedule permits it.
Tips for running during the first trimester
Follow the usual precautions, such as monitoring your heart rate drinking lots of water before, during, and after a jog. If you don’t, you can get dehydrated, which can decrease blood flow to the uterus and may even cause premature contractions. Wear proper shoes that provide plenty of support for your feet, especially around the ankles and arches. You may want to invest in a good sports bra to make sure your growing breasts are well-supported.
Tips for running during the second trimester
Your center of gravity is shifting, and your belly is growing, leaving you vulnerable to slips and falls. For safety, stick to flat pavement. And if you do lose your balance, fall correctly, says Tupler. Fall to your side or on your behind, to avoid trauma to the abdomen. You may want to start running on a track as your pregnancy progresses. Not only is the track surface easier on your body, but you may feel safer running somewhere where you won’t get stuck in case of an emergency.
Tips for running in the third trimester
Be as careful as you’ve been in the first two trimesters. And remember, if you feel too fatigued to go for a run, listen to your body and take a break. Although being sedentary is unhealthy, pushing yourself too hard is also harmful. Most avid runners find that their jogging pace slows down considerably during the third trimester — a fast waddle or shuffle may be the best you can do.
Warning signs
Never run or jog to the point of exhaustion or breathlessness. Pushing your body to the limit forces your body to use up oxygen that should be going to your baby.
Stop running or jogging immediately and call your doctor or midwife as soon as possible if you have any of the following symptoms: Vaginal bleeding, dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, or contractions. (Read more about when to call your healthcare provider.)
About the author:
http://www.babycenter.com
More home information - More pregnancy information
|
|
