High-Impact Exercise

Should I avoid it? Yes. For most pregnant women, low-impact exercise is a great way to feel better, look better, and help prepare the body for labor. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, stick to low-impact exercise. It's wise to avoid some exercises and activities such as:

weight training and heavy lifting (after the first trimester)
sit-ups (also after the first trimester)
contact sports
scuba diving
bouncing
jarring (anything that would cause a lot of up and down movement, such as horseback riding)
leaping
a sudden change of direction (such as downhill skiing)
What are the risks, if any, to my baby? High-impact exercise can cause increased pressure on the structures within the uterus that could lead to problems such as premature labor or bleeding.

What can I do about it? Some of the healthy ways pregnant women can stay fit include walking, swimming, water aerobics, yoga, and Pilates. But be sure to talk to your doctor before starting — or continuing — any exercise routine during pregnancy.