Is It Too Vigorous For Pregnancy?
Your question
I currently participate in a vigorous spinning class once a week. I have just discoved that I am pregnant and wonder if continuing this class may be dangerous for me and my baby? - Andrea, Stockton, California
The expert answers
Andrea,
Spinning is so much fun and can be safe to continue throughout pregnancy as long as you follow some basic precautions (and get your caregiver's okay!).
First of all, drink TONS of water before, during, and after the class.
Whatever amount the instructor advises for the rest of the class to drink,
double it! Staying well-hydrated will keep your core temperature within a
safe range, especially important during your first trimester.
Second, go at your own pace. If that means slowing down or loosening the tension on
your bike, do it! Pregnancy is not a time to compete with others in the
class or even with yourself. Let your body's signals be your guide -- if you
start to feel dizzy, faint, or nauseous, then you're working out too hard.
If you start to feel pain or discomfort in your abdomen or groin, then slow down your pace, reduce the tension, and sit upright and take sips of water until you feel better. If you need to cut the class short because you just don't have the energy on a given day, then do it!
Third, as your pregnancy progresses, cut down (or out) the number of jumps you do on the bike. Your changing center of gravity may cause you to lose your balance when riding out of the seat - just be aware.
Keep active throughout your pregnancy, even if that means giving up spinning for a while and switching to another aerobic activity. Just remember to really tune into your body's signals, and you should be just fine!
Lisa :)
