Signs You Should Stop Exercising While Pregnant

BySamradni Pradhan
Updated: 18 Jul 2025, 10:53 am

Staying active during pregnancy is great for your health, but it’s also important to listen to your body. Sometimes, you may need to slow down or stop exercising for a while. In this blog, we’ll tell you about the warning signs that mean you should stop working out during pregnancy. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to speak to your doctor right away. Remember, your health and your baby’s well-being always come first.

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Being active during pregnancy enhances blood flow, alleviates back discomfort, improves sleep, and helps your body prepare during labour. However, pregnancy is also a vulnerable period. Therefore, it is necessary to learn when your body is signalling you to take it easy or stop exercising altogether.
In this article:

Top 10 Signs To Pause Or Stop Exercising While Pregnant

Below are some of the significant symptoms you should know.

  1. Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage

When you observe some blood stained discharge, spotting, bleeding or watery discharge vaginally, it is an indication that something is wrong. This may either indicate problems with the placenta or even premature labour. Stop your exercise immediately and consult your doctor. The presence of slight bleeding ought to be taken seriously. Do not wait or expect it to be normal. In pregnancy, caution is always better.

  1. Shortness of breath before starting exercise

It is normal to feel out of breath during training, but breathing heavily before you start is a red flag. It may indicate that you have excessive pressure on the heart and the lungs.
Your body already works extra to assist your baby. If you cannot breathe deeply and fully at rest or when starting light exercise, it is recommended that you take a break and consult your healthcare provider.

  1. Dizziness or feeling faint

If you become lightheaded, dizzy, or faint, stop exercising immediately. It may be a result of low sugar concentration in the body, low blood pressure, or inadequate oxygen supply to the brain.
You can feel weak, clammy, or as though you are going to faint. Do not over-exert yourself. Sit or lie down, drink some water, and call your doctor if this feeling does not pass soon.

  1. Chest pain or pressure

Chest pains, tightness, or heaviness of any form should not be neglected. They may indicate a critical heart or lung problem.
As a reminder, when you are pregnant, your heart already expands to pump more blood than usual. When it begins to ache even slightly, it means you must discontinue the pursuit and seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

  1. Muscle weakness or trouble walking

When your legs or arms suddenly feel unstable or when you can no longer walk normally, it is time to quit. Numbness and tingling in your limbs are also possible.
These may be symptoms of nerve pressure or other complications that require medical attention. If you continue working out with such symptoms, they may worsen.

  1. Pain in the abdomen or pelvic region

Mild discomfort is normal during pregnancy, but sharp or continuous pain in your belly or pelvic area is not. If you feel cramping or any kind of pressure that doesn’t feel right, stop moving and rest.
It could be a sign of preterm labour, ligament strain, or something more serious. Always inform your doctor if the pain persists or worsens.

  1. Decreased fetal movements

One of the most beautiful experiences of pregnancy is feeling your baby move. If you notice that your baby is not moving as much as usual, it’s time to stop what you’re doing and observe.
Sometimes, your baby might just be sleeping. However, if you don’t feel any kicks or flutters for a few hours, especially after a workout, call your doctor to ensure everything is okay.

  1. Headache that doesn’t go away

Mild headaches can happen during pregnancy. However, if you experience a severe headache that doesn’t improve even after rest and hydration, it’s a warning sign.
It may be due to high blood pressure, dehydration, or something more serious like preeclampsia. If this happens during or after your exercise session, stop immediately and seek medical help.

  1. Swelling in hands, feet, or face

Some swelling is common during pregnancy. However, if you suddenly notice puffy hands, feet, or face, especially after a workout, it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Swelling that appears suddenly or worsens quickly may be a sign of high blood pressure disorders. Avoid exercise until your doctor checks your condition.

  1. Irregular or rapid heartbeat

Your heart rate naturally increases during exercise. But if it starts racing too fast or beating unevenly and you feel uncomfortable, don’t ignore it.
This could mean your heart is under too much stress, and it’s not safe to continue. If the issue persists, sit down, breathe deeply, and inform your doctor.
Being active during pregnancy can do wonders for your health, but it should never come at the cost of your or your baby’s safety. If you feel any unusual symptoms, don’t try to manage them on your own. It is advisable to always consult a medical expert.
Every pregnancy is unique. By being aware of the warning signs and listening to your body, you can ensure a safe, happy, and healthy journey into motherhood.

FAQs on Signs You Should Stop Exercising While Pregnant

  1. Can I continue exercising if I feel a little tired during pregnancy?
    Yes, mild tiredness is common. But if you feel extremely weak or can’t function normally, it’s best to stop and rest. Always speak to your doctor before continuing.
  2. What exercises are safest during pregnancy?
    Walking, prenatal yoga, swimming, and stretching are generally safe for most women. But every pregnancy is different. Always follow your doctor’s advice on what suits you best.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr Keerti Khetan, Director, Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi

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