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Have you ever seen a pregnant woman run a marathon? Do you think running while pregnant is a dangerous activity?
Running is the easiest sport that can be done by people of all ages. For those who like to exercise, usually they don't want to skip this physical activity because they are used to it. Including when you are pregnant. You must be curious, can pregnant women run? We know how to find the answer in this article.
Is it safe for a pregnant woman to run?
According to research published by the University of Geneva, in Switzerland, regular physical activity has been shown to bring benefits to both the mother and the fetus. According to athlete runner Kelly Collins who still chooses to run while pregnant, running is not only beneficial in the birth or delivery process. But also throughout the gestational period for 9 months.
Running is safe during pregnancy if you are in good health and do not fall into the high-risk pregnancy category. Because every woman's condition is different, you need to ask your doctor first if you have certain medical conditions.
Women who used to run before becoming pregnant can continue this activity while pregnant at a normal pace as long as you are comfortable. If you are not used to running and want to run while pregnant. Start slowly, warming up for 5 to 10 minutes by stretching and walking. Then start running slowly for 5 minutes. Cool down by walking for 5 to 10 minutes.
If you feel fine, you can slowly increase your speed each week. The time recommended by obstetricians to run for pregnant women is 20 to 30 minutes. Don't push yourself when you start to feel tired, listen to your body, because only you can feel it yourself.
Safe tips for running while pregnant
Running for pregnant women can improve cardiovascular or heart function, balance weight, and reduce muscle discomfort. Running can also reduce muscle cramps, maintain emotional stability, and reduce the risk of gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) and hypertension in pregnant women. If you already know the benefits, of course you want to do this easy physical activity too. Here are the tips before you run.
- Stay hydrated. Drink as much as you need before running. You don't want to become dehydrated while running. It is highly recommended to choose water.
- Maintain body temperature. Try to keep your body temperature cool, because pregnant women tend to get hot easily. Use loose clothing made of absorbent material.
- Choose the right shoes. This is for the comfort of your feet and ankles. Use one that can absorb sweat on the feet and the size is right for your feet.
- Use a special bra. Wear a sports bra to adjust your breast size during pregnancy.
Running while pregnant is safe as long as you don't have certain dangerous medical conditions. And don't push yourself too hard if you're getting tired.
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