The worst exercises to practice in pregnancy are those that cause risk of injury to the belly, falls or that force the abdomen and back of the woman. So the contraindicated exercises during pregnancy are the abs, the push ups, the jumps, the running and the exercises that need balance, that hold the breath or that are done with the belly down.
The ideal is to ask the doctor during prenatal consultations if there is any contraindication to practicing physical activity during pregnancy, because the type of exercise to be practiced depends on the health history of the pregnant woman and the general health of the pregnancy.
Sports contraindicated
In addition to the contraindicated exercises, some physical contact sports or high impact on the body are also prohibited during pregnancy, such as boxing, volleyball, soccer, basketball, horseback riding, martial arts, weightlifting, running, diving and high impact gymnastics.
These sports are contraindicated because they carry a high risk of impact on the belly or falls, which can cause problems in pregnancy and impair the development of the fetus.
When to stop physical activity
Physical activity should be discontinued when the pregnant woman experiences any of the following symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeds;
- Shortness of breath after exertion;
- Dizziness and heart palpitations;
- Headache and chest pain;
- Muscle weakness.
In addition, exercise should also be stopped when there is a risk of preterm birth, decreased fetal movements or loss of amniotic fluid. See When the decrease in baby's belly movements is worrisome.
When exercise is contraindicated
Physical exercises may be contraindicated according to the health of the pregnant woman, ranging from absolute contraindication, when the woman can not practice any physical activity, and relative contraindication, when the doctor will evaluate the case and authorize lighter exercises.
| Absolute contraindication | Relative contraindication |
| Decompensated heart disease | Anemia |
| Cardiac insufficiency | Thyroid Diseases |
| Thrombosis | Decompensated Diabetes |
| Recent pulmonary embolism | Morbid obesity |
| Acute infectious disease | History of extreme sedentary lifestyle |
| Risk of preterm birth | Placenta |
| Uterine bleeding | Pregnancy of twins |
| Rh Factor Incompatibility | Had a premature baby in the past |
| High pressure | Spine problems |
| Suspected fetal stress | Problems in hip joint |
| Patient without prenatal care | Threat of miscarriage |
It is important to remember that pregnant women who present any contraindications should first speak with the obstetrician to have guidelines about the activities they can or can not practice, and always be guided by a physical educator during the exercises.
To stay active safely, see the 7 Best Exercises for Practicing in Pregnancy.
