Trampoline Use During Early Pregnancy: Safety Considerations
Jumping on a trampoline during the first two months of pregnancy is not recommended due to the risk of falling, which could potentially harm the mother and fetus. 1
Safety Concerns with Trampoline Use in Pregnancy
- The 2019 Canadian Guidelines for Physical Activity throughout Pregnancy specifically advise pregnant women to avoid activities that involve danger of falling, which includes gymnastics and activities with similar risk profiles 1
- Trampoline use carries an inherent risk of falling or loss of balance, which increases during pregnancy due to changes in body mechanics and the ability to respond to environmental factors 1
- Activities that involve physical contact or danger of falling are contraindicated during pregnancy as they may increase the risk of fetal trauma 1
Recommended Physical Activities During Early Pregnancy
- Pregnant women without contraindications should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, accumulated over a minimum of 3 days 1
- A variety of aerobic and resistance training activities are recommended to achieve greater benefits 1
- Appropriate activities may include walking, swimming, stationary cycling, and modified yoga or stretching 2, 3
Important Safety Guidelines for Exercise During Pregnancy
- All exercise should be performed at a comfortable intensity where conversation is still possible (the "talk test") 1
- Previously active women may continue physical activity throughout pregnancy but may need to modify activities as pregnancy progresses 1
- Women should stop physical activity and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as:
- Persistent excessive shortness of breath
- Severe chest pain
- Regular and painful uterine contractions
- Vaginal bleeding
- Persistent dizziness or faintness 1
Benefits of Appropriate Exercise During Pregnancy
- Regular physical activity during pregnancy is associated with numerous benefits including decreased risk of gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, excessive weight gain, and depression 2, 3
- Exercise is not associated with increased risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, or birth defects when performed appropriately 1
Alternative Activities to Consider
- Low-impact aerobic exercises that maintain fitness without risk of falling 3
- Pelvic floor muscle training (Kegel exercises) which can be performed daily to reduce the risk of urinary incontinence 1
- Gentle stretching and modified yoga poses that avoid the supine position if it causes discomfort 1, 4
While exercise during pregnancy offers significant health benefits, safety must be prioritized. Activities with high risk of falling or abdominal trauma, such as trampoline jumping, should be avoided throughout pregnancy, including the first two months 1.