Can I Box Or Take Boxing Classes During Pregnancy?
Boxing is a great aerobic activity, and its popularity is increasing. Boxing is an ideal stress reliever (what other sport allows you to punch your way to serenity?). You not only get some cardio in but you also build arm muscle. Many women can benefit from strength training, especially as you age and muscle strength naturally lessens. Boxing classes also foster mental strength, independence, and defense training. There is no reason that you cannot enjoy boxing throughout your pregnancy, as long as you make some significant modifications as your pregnancy progresses.
If you box during pregnancy, only do it without anyone hitting you.
Don’t Engage In Person-to-Person Combat
Hitting a punching bag is vastly different than engaging in boxing with another person in which you can get injured. During pregnancy, you must guard your body and your belly in particular from any unnecessary blows or injuries. Even if you agree to only throw punches on the upper part of the body, the potential for harm to the baby still exists. Do not box during pregnancy in the traditional way but only do it without anyone hitting you. If you are accustomed to boxing with another person, pregnancy is the time to use a punching bag for your regular workouts.
Watch Out For Signs Of Exhaustion
Fatigue is one of the most common early pregnancy signs and you may not have the stamina you did before getting pregnant due to rising progesterone levels in the first trimester. However, fatigue may subside with your second trimester, yet it will likely resurface later as you get closer to delivery. Carrying around all that extra weight can make you tire easily in the third trimester. Boxing is an exhaustive sport and more frequent breaks may be necessary during pregnancy.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Hydration is essential during pregnancy whenever you exercise. Especially when the exercise is as intense as boxing. You should drink some water every 10-15 minutes to ensure you do not get dehydrated.
Before You Start
Make sure you come equipped with loose-fitting clothing that is not restrictive. Wear a good pair of running/exercise shoes, which will help keep your balance. Make sure you are not exercising on an empty stomach, which could cause a drop in blood sugar and a general feeling of unwellness.
Know When To Stop
If you have any dizziness, shortness of breath, or feel light-headed, immediately take a break to sit down or lie down on your left side, and drink water. If you become overheated, stop boxing. Increasing core body temperature above 101 degrees may cause hyperthermia. If the symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
Read More:
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