Is it Safe to Go Jogging When Pregnant?

While it used to be fairly common myth that pregnant women shouldn’t exercise much, that sort of thinking is starting to turn around. It is now generally accepted that a great many kinds of exercise are not only safe, but also beneficial to pregnant women. One popular form of exercise is jogging, and women are finding that it is quite all right to jog when pregnant. That being said, there are a few things to keep in mind before starting up a fitness regime during your pregnancy.

Jogging during pregnancy is only something you want to do if you are already in the habit. Now is not the time to start a completely new exercise regime. Being fit and healthy is very important for your pregnancy, but it’s important to not suddenly put your body under even greater strain than it already is. If you’re accustomed to jogging several times a week, it’s all right to jog when pregnant. One thing that’s important to keep in mind is that a sudden and dramatic increase in your core body temperature can be harmful to the fetus. Therefore, no matter what kind of exercise you are doing, be very careful to not overheat.

Even though this can be a problem at any time, jogging during pregnancy can be particularly hard on your joints. Your joints loosen during pregnancy in any case, so if you jog when pregnant, it can be particularly painful if you aren’t used to it.

During the first trimester, keep a few things in mind before going for a jog. Your body is especially vulnerable to dehydration during pregnancy, so be sure to drink a lot of water before, during and after your jog. Be sure to wear an extra supportive sports bra, since your breasts may be growing during this time, and be sure that your shoes are especially supportive around the ankles and arches.

During the second trimester, you will become acutely aware of your growing belly. This can sometimes create problems with balance, so stick to jogging on flat surfaces. Jog on a track, if at all possible, and if you should fall, try to land on your side, or land on your arms so that your abdomen is protected.

During the third trimester, it’s especially important to listen to your body. If you feel too tired to jog when pregnant, then don’t. In fact, due to your increasing size, you may find it too uncomfortable, so switching to a brisk walk may be the best alternative.

Jogging during pregnancy can be an excellent way to stay fit and build your endurance for labor and delivery. If you have never done it before, now is not the time to start, however. The main things you need to consider when jogging during pregnancy are your comfort and safety. Remember to keep your core temperature low, be aware of any balance issues and make sure that your gear is appropriate for your changing shape. Even without pushing too hard, your strength and endurance will increase greatly.