Projo Fitness Blog

1) HYPERTHERMIA
Concern: A higher-than-normal body temperature is the most common concern for the fetus during high-intensity exercise, says Druxman, as the fetus can take on the mother's increased body temperature, possibly leading to birth defects. Studies do indicate, however, that fit clients actually have better ability to dissipate heat.

Prevention: Pregnant athletes should be most cautious about exercising in hot conditions and for long durations during the first trimester, as the fetus can't regulate its own body temperature at this stage and is thus more susceptible to the mother's. Wear light-colored, breathable fabrics to keep cool, and drink plenty of water throughout the day and during exercise bouts. Urine should appear clear in color, indicating proper hydration. To further monitor, some experts recommend that pregnant athletes also take their temperature (vaginally or rectally to ensure accuracy) immediately before and after their longest weekly workout.

2) SPORTS INJURIES
Concern: An extreme blow to (or fall onto) the abdomen during any stage of pregnancy can damage the placenta, although there is greater risk of damage to the fetus during the later stages, as it's positioned higher in the womb and unprotected by the pelvis, says Druxman. Although most medical experts agree that the typical falls and contact levels common in sports are unlikely to cause damage, there is potential for injury, so it's best for the athlete and her physician to ultimately decide what's safe.

Prevention: Because I've found they can be problematic to pregnant athletes, says Druxman, I usually discourage my clients from participating in contact sports, such as hockey, boxing, wrestling, football and soccer; as well as high risk sports, such as gymnastics, horseback riding, skating, skiing , hang gliding, racquetball and scuba diving, as all of these activities increase the risk of falls and/or abdominal trauma.

3) OXYGEN DEFICIT
Concern: The duration, type and intensity of the exercise performed can all affect the fetus' heart rate. When a woman performs extreme levels of exercise on an inconsistent basis, uterine blood flow can decrease to a point where the fetus experiences a serious oxygen deficit. Typically, a pregnant athlete who trains regularly will have a fetus that is better conditioned to adapt to the stresses of exercise, but monitoring is still important, says Druxman.

Prevention: Pregnant athletes should follow any fitness program with a thorough cool-down period of gentle exercise and also pay special attention to fetal movements in the hours immediately following a workout. Like us, babies stop moving when they aren't getting enough oxygen.