Early Pregnancy and horseback riding?

KristinNP · May 2013

I'm going to the doctor tomorrow to confirm the positive HPT I received today as I had a chemical pregnancy last month but I wanted to know everyone's opinion on this type of physical exercise and early pregnancy? I am probably only about 4-6 weeks, very early. I only ride a few times a month but was wondering from a safety standpoint whether I can keep riding? I've read wildly different things on the internet from absolutely not, to as long as you feel comfortable. Seems that perhaps the first trimester is ok due to where the fetus is sitting and then not so much afterwards in case of a fall. But not sure if the motion itself is jarring or harmful? Anyone have experience in this area or with that type of intensive exercise while pregnant? My heartrate and breathing get quite elevated while riding so I'm not sure what type of exercise that could be comparable to and I don't do any others current haha. Any guidance would be great as I am due to go next week.

spencerlynne · May 2013

I come from a family of horse-lovers, I grew up with horses and have been around world class showing my entire life. I would NOT recommend riding - it's very jostling and risky. You could be thrown at any point (even on a quiet horse) and that's a long drop/hard fall. All the major trainers that I know have stayed off a horse their entire pregnancy.

Unknown · May 2013

I've always heard horseback riding is a no-no when pregnant, but learned the other day that a friend's sister did it throughout her whole pregnancy with her doctor's OK. It seems to me, in general, that any kind of exercise you did before you were pregnant is OK while pregnant until it becomes uncomfortable or your doctor tells you to stop. But you HAVE to get clearance from your doctor first.

hannahmp · May 2013

Competitive Barrel Racer here....I kept competing until I was 18 weeks pregnant and then just riding until 26 weeks. I know lots of people that rode even longer than I did. If you know what you're doing it's not that big of a deal.

bunnycakes011508 · May 2013

I'd go with your doctor's advice first and foremost. There is a reason why horseback riding is used for physical and psychological therapy though- it's good exercise and it makes you feel good. I would definitely make sure that it's a steady horse and a good environment, or that you're a very experienced rider (you don't want thrown.) If you're nervous about jolting movements you can stick to just walking and avoid trotting.

KristinNP · May 2013

Thanks everyone. My doctor told me it was ok to keep going in my first trimester and said I could ride later if it felt comfortable. But said I wasn't allowed to fall off haha which I understand but with horses, it's never a guarantee. So I certainly won't keep riding into my second trimester and will have to see how I feel for the rest of this first part. Not sure hubby will like the idea of me continuing to go. I appreciate the advice

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