But that's no reason to give up a healthy lifestyle. In fact, regular exercise
during pregnancy will help your body bounce back much quicker after having
your baby. Just try to avoid activities that call for jumping, jarring motions
or quick changes in direction that may strain your joints and cause injury.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends the following
sports during pregnancy:

Walking is great all through and even after pregnancy. Even if you've never
exercised before, walking is a good place to start.

Swimming is good, too. Both your arms, legs and heart get a good workout,
without straining your ligaments and joints. It tones your body, and the
water supports your weight. Don't dive during the last two trimesters and
avoid having your abdomen hitting the water too hard.

If you jogged before you became pregnant, it's OK too. Be careful, though,
because your balance may be off. Be sure to drink plenty of water.

A light game of tennis is acceptable if you played tennis before you became
pregnant. Golf and bowling are fine as recreation, but they don't really
condition the heart. Low-impact or water aerobics, yoga, and stretching are
other great ways to stay in shape during pregnancy.

Sports to avoid

Downhill skiing. Too dangerous. A safer choice is cross-country skiing.

Horseback riding. Not worth risking a fall.

Contact sports such as soccer, basketball, and hockey. Too much risk of injury.

Scuba diving is definitely off-limits during pregnancy. Diving under water
can cause dangerous gas bubbles to form in your baby's developing circulatory system.