CAN YOU BOWL WHILE PREGNANT

Is bowling safe when pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to go bowling, provided you follow a few precautions, the ball is not heavy and you do not have problems such as:

• placenta previa
• a history of premature labor
• heart diseases
• carry multiples
• Rectal dimension
• Previous knee or back injuries

However, you need to understand your body and talk to your doctor if you have symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, or vaginal bleeding.

When can bowling be uncomfortable?

As pregnancy progresses, bowling can become unpleasant for a number of reasons:

• As the belly grows, there is too much pressure on your back to support the body.
• The shift in the center of gravity makes it difficult to maintain your balance while bowling in the lane.
• Your joints and ligaments start to lose strength in both your upper and lower body, and bowling uses more strength in your upper body.
• Your joints and ligaments loosen and strain, sprain, or dislocation becomes more likely.

Experts recommend that pregnant women do low-impact exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, and prenatal yoga. You can include them in your daily routine because:

What are the benefits of bowling during pregnancy?

• They are known to reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
• They put minimal stress on your joints and are therefore better than high-intensity activities like swimming.
• Recreational activities like bowling will boost your mood and reduce your risk of depression.
• They also improve your heart rate and endurance just like aerobic exercise does.
• They can improve your mental health and benefit postpartum recovery.

Remember that you can start any exercise during pregnancy only after consulting your doctor. Also, you should not overdo it.

Safety tips for bowling during pregnancy

Bowling balls can put stress on your shoulders, joints, and back. You can also slide down the alley. So take some safety measures to avoid falls and injuries.

• Choose lighter balls to avoid unnecessary pressure on the back. Ligaments and joints become flexible during pregnancy and thus the chances of straining or injuring your back are high.
• Go for duckpin bowling as the balls are easy to handle due to their small size.
• Be careful while bowling as the lanes are smoothed with oils so the balls move easily.
• If you feel that the movement is having an annoying effect on your joints, stop doing it.
• Keep your back straight and bend your knees while lifting the ball. This helps take the strain off your back and prevents injury to your spinal and fetal tissues.
• Most importantly, stop playing it if you don’t feel comfortable.

Can bowling cause a miscarriage?

Bowling is not known to cause miscarriage as long as you do it carefully. If your back starts to hurt or you feel tired, avoid the activity.

Is it safe to go bowling in your first trimester?

Yes, it is safe to go bowling in the first trimester. But don’t exhaust yourself and choose a ball that is comfortable to lift. Discuss all sports activities with your doctor. It helps you make the right decision based on your health condition. Remember, your comfort level should be your guide. The moment you start to feel uncomfortable, you should avoid the activity.

(Have you bowled during your pregnancy? Share your story in the comments section below.)

(Read more: How to Stay Fit During Pregnancy | Do’s and Don’t)

 (Read more: How to Get Back in Shape After Pregnancy)