Pregnancy exercise in hot, humid weather

Prenatal exercise is great for your health, which in turn benefits your baby too. Bu what if you live in a hot, humid climate? Should you shun exercise altogether, or what precautions can you take?

Most pregnant women absolutely benefit from regular work outs, regardless of the climate they live in. There are a few exceptions of course if you are on bed rest because you are expecting twins or more, have an incompetent cervix, or are at special risk of premature labor, you shouldn't do any more physical activity than you have discussed with your doctor in a lot of detail. If this isn't applicable to you, sport and physical activity are excellent. However, overheating is risky during pregnancy. If you live somewhere hot and humid, here are some tips for you:

1. First off, make absolutely sure that you stay properly hydrated.
2. If you are exercising outside, bring a water bottle at all times.
3. Take regular breaks when you notice you are feeling hot.
4. You can even take breaks when you are not not especially sweaty or hot, just to be on the safe side.
5. Wearing natural fabrics that can breathe will make you feel more comfortable, and prevent you from sweating excessively. Cotton and viscose are good options.
6. If you are right out in the sun, cover your arms and legs to prevent sunburn which can negatively impact your baby as well.
7. Avoid the hottest hours in the sun if you are exercising outside. Depending on where you are, that's likely to mean staying out of the sun from 10 am to 5 pm, or from 11 am to 6 pm.
8. You can always work out at a gym (inside!) or go swimming at an indoor swimming pool. Swimming is a wonderful prenatal exercise because it works nearly every muscle in the body without putting a strain on it water makes you almost weightless!