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Cycling Mama
Should Moms-to-be
Take up Bicycling?
Take up Bicycling?
By Charlene Torkelson, Fitness Expert
Bicycling is a low-impact exercise. Low impact is recommended during pregnancy because it is easy on the ankles and knee joints. It avoids the pounding and jarring on the joints that may cause pain and injury. Bicycling is easy on body joints. It is also an activity many have mastered during childhood and have successfully been doing for many years. Biking is generally an excellent aerobic exercise.
The Bad
As your pregnancy progresses you will notice a shift in your center of gravity. This makes balance a problem, and many pregnant women find they feel "klutzy." Imbalance problems could cause falls and spills. Anything that may cause a fall should be avoided during pregnancy for the safety of both the mother and the baby. So generally, most doctors will recommend not initiating a new sport that may cause balance issues. This includes snow skiing, water skiing, rock climbing and bicycling. These are activities that have the potential for accidental falls and possible injuries. Biking Safety and Precautions
If you are an avid rider and want to continue during the first part of your pregnancy, make sure to take these precautions: - Avoid rough areas and bumpy, dangerous trails.
- Avoid sharp turns or difficult maneuvers.
- When riding with a group, avoid riding too close to other riders. You may accidentally clip another tire or part of someone's bicycle.
- Stay hydrated. Make sure you drink enough water.
- In the same token, you will need to increase your calorie intake during pregnancy. When biking or increasing your activity, your calorie intake needs to be adjusted to an even higher level to take into consideration the extra calories burned.
- Avoid shortness of breath. If you notice any trouble with your breathing stop riding immediately.
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