What constitutes a risk for pregnant women engaging in certain exercise modalities?

Excessive high-impact movements can pose a significant risk for pregnant women because their bodies undergo numerous physiological changes during pregnancy. These changes include altered balance, joint stability, and the body’s center of gravity. High-impact exercises can increase the likelihood of falls, injuries, or excessive strain on joints. Additionally, the increased relaxin hormone during pregnancy can make ligaments more pliable, further elevating the risk of injury if high-impact exercises are performed.

Moreover, as the pregnancy progresses, the body becomes less adapted to the stresses of high-impact movements, making it crucial to choose exercise modalities that minimize the risk of trauma and injury. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or stationary cycling, are generally recommended as they provide benefits without placing undue stress on the body.