
* Occasionally, exercise can stimulate uterine activity or cause other problems. Before starting any exercise, check the precautions about preterm labor. (See the section on preterm labor).
* Always maintain correct posture by tilting your pelvis and straightening your back.
* Monitor your breathing and keep the ability to walk and talk easily while exercising. Stop exercising when tired and do not exercise until exhaustion.
* Exercise should be done regularly three times a week. During pregnancy, aerobic exercises should not exceed five times a week so your body can rest and recover properly.
* Avoid any type of exercise that can cause abdominal trauma, although this is light.
* Avoid rigorous bouncing.
* Avoid arching your back.
* Do not lift your feet over your hips (sailing position or bicycle with your feet in the air).
* Do not do abdominal bending beyond 45 degrees.
* Breathe continuously while you exercise, do not hold your breath. In general, exhale on exertion.
* Check the separation of the abdominal muscles each week and take the necessary precautions, if instructed. (See the section on abdominal muscles). Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
* Avoid activities that require a precise balance and coordination. As your pregnancy progresses, coordination may be impaired by the increase in weight, the change in the center of gravity, softening and increased mobility in your joints and ligaments.
* The muscles used in aerobic activity should stretch properly before and after exercise.
* Reduce your level of exercise as your pregnancy progresses. The increase in body weight will require a greater energy output, so you will feel more tired. If you feel tired, reduce your exercise level and switch to simple stretching exercises / strengthening. Check with your health care.
* In general, continue to do any activity that has been enjoying before pregnancy, as long as you feel comfortable. If you want to start with a new aerobic program, consult your health care or try a program with a trained professional.
* Consider using an exercise video for pregnancy to be approved and to follow the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG, for its acronym in English) for exercise at home.