The worst exercises to practice in pregnancy are those that pose a risk of belly injuries, falls or that put a lot of strain on the woman's abdomen and back. Thus, the contraindicated exercises during pregnancy are the abdominals, 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 practice physical activity during pregnancy, as the type of exercise to be practiced depends on the health history of the pregnant woman and the general health of the pregnancy.
Contraindicated sports
In addition to contraindicated exercises, some sports of physical contact or high impact on the body are also prohibited during pregnancy, such as boxing, volleyball, football, basketball, equestrian, martial arts, weightlifting, running, diving and high impact gymnastics.
These sports are contraindicated because they bring a high risk of impact on the belly or falls, which can cause problems during pregnancy and impair the development of the fetus.
When to stop physical activity
Physical activity should be stopped when the pregnant woman experiences any of the following symptoms:
- Vaginal bleeding; 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 premature birth, decreased fetal movement or loss of amniotic fluid. See When slowing baby's movements in the belly is worrying.
When exercise is contraindicated
Physical exercises may be contraindicated according to the pregnant woman's health, varying between absolute contraindication, when the woman cannot 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 premature birth | Placenta |
| Uterine bleeding | Twin pregnancy |
| Rh factor mismatch | Had a premature baby in the past |
| High pressure | Spine problems |
| Suspected fetal stress | Hip joint problems |
| Patient without prenatal care | Threat of miscarriage |
It is important to remember that pregnant women who have any contraindications should first speak to the obstetrician to have guidance on the activities they may or may not practice, and to always be guided by a physical educator during the exercises.
To stay safe and active, check out the 7 Best Exercises for Pregnancy.
