Being pregnant doesn’t mean that you can’t stay active. In fact, exercising during pregnancy has been shown to have many benefits for both the mother and the baby.
Many pregnant women opt to exercise at the gym since it offers a variety of equipment, classes, and personal trainers to help guide them through their workouts. In today’s digital age, it’s common to see people with their mobile devices in hand while working out. But, is it safe for pregnant women to engage with their mobile devices while exercising? Here’s what you should know.
1. Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
When you’re pregnant, it’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings, especially when you’re in a noisy gym environment.
If you’re wearing headphones while using your mobile device, it’s easy to become so engrossed in your activity that you may not hear someone trying to get your attention. Make sure to keep your volume at a comfortable level and be aware of your surroundings.
2. Stay Hydrated
It’s critical to stay hydrated during pregnancy. You’ll want to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your gym session. If you’re using your mobile device to track your workout, make sure to have a bottle of water nearby.
The last thing you want is to become dehydrated while exercising as it can lead to health problems for you and your baby.
3. Don’t Multitask
It’s tempting to multitask when you’re working out at the gym. You might want to check your emails or texts while pedaling on the stationary bike, but this can be dangerous.
Multitasking can affect your balance, coordination, and increase your risk of falling or injuring yourself. It’s best to focus on one task at a time and concentrate on your workout.
4. Choose Safe Exercises
When you’re pregnant, it’s important to choose safe exercises that won’t put you or your baby at risk. Some exercises, like jump squats or heavy weightlifting, can be dangerous during pregnancy.
Make sure to consult with your doctor or a personal trainer who has experience working with pregnant women. They can recommend safe exercises that are tailored to your needs.
5. Avoid Overheating
Overheating can be dangerous during pregnancy. If you’re using your mobile device to track your heart rate or monitor your workout, make sure to be aware of your body’s temperature.
Take breaks if you start to feel too hot and find ways to cool down, like drinking water and taking a refreshing shower after your workout.
6. Take Frequent Breaks
Pregnancy can be exhausting, so it’s important to take frequent breaks while exercising. If you’re using your mobile device to track your workout, make sure to set reminders to take breaks every 15-20 minutes.
Stretching and taking a short walk can also help reduce fatigue and keep you energized.
7. Consider using Pregnancy Workout Apps
If you’re looking for a more structured workout routine, consider using pregnancy workout apps designed specifically for pregnant women. These apps provide safe exercises and routines that are tailored to your trimester.
Some apps also have built-in tracking features to monitor your progress. Best of all, these apps can be accessed on your mobile device, making it convenient to use at the gym.
8. Use Apps to Monitor Your Health
Mobile apps can also be used to monitor your health during pregnancy. There are apps that can help you track your weight gain, monitor your blood pressure, and even keep track of your contractions in labor.
These apps can provide valuable information to your doctor and can help you make informed decisions about your health.
9. Bond with Your Baby
Exercise can provide an opportunity to bond with your baby. Try using apps that play music or sound effects that your baby can hear. This can help stimulate your baby’s senses and provide a pleasant experience for the both of you.
You can also use apps that provide guided meditation or breathing exercises to help relax and connect with your baby.
10. Listen to Your Body
The most important thing to keep in mind when using your mobile device at the gym while pregnant is to listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, stop. Don’t push yourself too hard, and make sure to rest when you need to.
Remember that everyone’s pregnancy is different, and what works for one woman may not work for another. Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise routine, and pay attention to any signals that your body may be sending you.