female athletes; pregnancy

Question 1

Is exercise during pregnancy recommended?

Answer 1

Yes, as it helps maintain;
- Healthy body weight
- Flexibility
- Strength
- Cardio- respiratory endurance

These are important for the mother’s general health before, during and after birth.

Question 2

What are the main concerns for pregnant women during physical activity?

Answer 2

• Intensity
• Type of activity
• Temperature
• Competitive sports

Question 3

What is a concern for pregnant women pertaining to intensity?

Answer 3

The intensity should be decreased to gentle in the third trimester.

Question 4

What is a concern for pregnant women pertaining to type of physical activity?

Answer 4

Jumping, frequent change in direction, excessive stretching activities such as gymnastics and basketball should be avoided in later stages of pregnancy due to pelvic floor muscles weakening.

Question 5

What is a concern for pregnant women pertaining to temperature?

Answer 5

Thermoregulation is a concern, as a pregnant female is more at risk of hyperthermia. Hence exercise should be performed during cover periods of the day with adequate hydration.

Question 6

What is a concern for pregnant women pertaining to competitive sports?

Answer 6

High contact competitive sports (e.g. basketball) should be completely avoided due to it’s unpredictable nature and light contact competitive sports (e.g. netball) should cease after the first trimester.