Are you an avid pickleball player who just found out you’re pregnant? Congratulations! While pregnancy can change your routine, it doesn’t necessarily mean saying goodbye to your favorite sport. Many women wonder if they can continue playing pickleball while expecting, and the answer can sometimes be complicated.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of playing pickleball during pregnancy and provide some tips for staying safe on the court while growing a little human inside you.
So grab your paddle, and let’s get started!
Can You Play Pickleball While Pregnant?
Yes, Pickleball can be played while pregnant. Pickleball is a low-impact activity that is safe for pregnant women to participate in. It is also one of the reasons Pickleball is so well-liked.
Given that it’s a sport that doesn’t require much physical effort, it’s a fantastic way to stay active and healthy while pregnant.
Pickleball is one of the finest ways to meet other pregnant ladies trying to be active and socialize.
Is Pickleball Safe for Pregnant Women?
Pickleball is a fantastic sport for expectant mothers because it is low-impact and does not include a lot of running. Quick reactions can also pop the ball out of the netting, preventing damage. Pregnant women should follow a few safety precautions before playing pickleball, though.
- First, always wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth from cuts.
- Second, warm up adequately before playing because pickleball can make your body quickly get cold.
- For an ambulance to get to you promptly if the ball strikes you, keep your head down and maintain your composure.
Benefits of Playing Pickleball When Pregnant
Playing pickleball during pregnancy has many benefits for both mother and baby. Pickleball is an indoor sport that can be played without needing shoes. It makes it an excellent choice for pregnant women who want to stay active and strengthen their muscles while pregnant.
Pickleball is also a low-impact sport, which benefits pregnant women because they are often advised not to engage in high-impact sports. Playing pickleball will help maintain the woman’s balance and prevent further injury.
The main benefit of playing pickleball during pregnancy is improving the mother-baby relationship. The game of pickleball requires strategizing, communication, and teamwork, all of which are essential skills that help build a strong relationship between a mother and her child later in life.
A study published in the journal “Woman’s Health Issues” found that mothers who played pickleball with their children felt more connected to their children than mothers who didn’t play pickleball. It was likely because picking up the ball and hitting it together helps develop coordination skills in babies early on, which builds trust and understanding between parents and children. Playing this fun, low-impact sport with your partner or friends can be a great way to connect with your child while pregnant!
Precautions to Take While Playing Pickleball in Pregnancy
Pregnant women and their unborn children can both enjoy pickleball. However, there are a few safety measures to follow when playing pickleball while pregnant.
Pickleball is typically considered safe for pregnant women because it has a mild impact. Pregnant women should take extra precautions when playing, though, as the sport includes higher stress levels and speed. Observe the following general advice when playing pickleball:
- Make sure you’re wearing cozy footwear with supportive ankles.
- If desired, put on caps and sunscreen.
- Avert aggressively bouncing the ball off the ground or other hard surfaces. It may have effects that could be harmful to your child.
Risks Of Playing Pickleball While Pregnant
There is no limit to the age or fitness level of those who enjoy pickleball. However, playing pickleball while pregnant can be dangerous because it requires quick reflexes and agility.
You risk falling and hitting your abdomen or pelvic area with your pickleball paddle when playing pickleball. If you fall while playing and hit your belly or pelvis, you could experience significant pain and may even require surgery. Pregnant women should avoid any activity that could harm them or their babies.
If you decide to play pickleball while pregnant, take precautions such as wearing a wrist guard, proper shoes, and using a sturdy ball. And if you fall during play, always stay calm and seek medical attention immediately.
When Should Pregnant Women Stop Playing Pickleball?
This question has no definitive answer as the decision depends on several factors, including the individual’s health and fitness level. However, some experts suggest that pregnant women should stop playing pickleball when they experience any of the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Backache
- Blisters or rashes on the skin
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Frequent dizziness or lightheadedness
FAQs
Any sport or activity involving many quick, bouncing motions, such as horseback riding, downhill skiing, off-road cycling, gymnastics, or skating, can lead to falls. Any sport where you risk taking a blow to the stomach, such as ice hockey, boxing, soccer, or basketball.
Trauma to the bump due to a tennis ball during the second and third trimesters is a significant danger. Ensure your adversary knows you’re pregnant and agree to avoid any shots directed at your abdomen. When you have given birth, start playing tennis again gradually.
Smoking or doing drugs while pregnant is the most dangerous thing you can do because they pose substantial health concerns to both the mother and the unborn child.
Conclusion
While pregnant, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential. One great way to do this is by playing pickleball! This sport is low-impact and easy on the joints, making it an excellent option for pregnant women. Additionally, pickleball can be fun and social – perfect for staying connected with your partner during this time.
I am a professional physiotherapist and the author of the BallSportsPro. I worked with athletes of all levels, from amateur to professional, and i helped them overcome injuries and improve their performance. I am a certified Pickleball instructor and has been playing the sport for over 10 years.
