Can You Ride a Bike During Pregnancy?

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By Dr. Lisa Smiley | Updated on Dec 8, 2023
Image for article Can You Ride a Bike During Pregnancy?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week 2 during pregnancy, and biking can be a great way to meet those recommendations. 

A stationary bike might be a better option during pregnancy because it reduces the risk of falling that comes with riding a standard bike. As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to make some adjustments on your bike to remain comfortable. To make room for your belly, raise the handlebars and scoot your seat forward. Keep your spine in a neutral position and relax your shoulders. 

One way to judge an appropriate level of intensity during exercise like biking is to use the “talk test.” 1 You should be able to hold a conversation during exercise; if you can’t, decrease the intensity to avoid overexertion. 

Stop exercise if you’re experiencing any vaginal bleeding, dizziness, headache, shortness of breath prior to exercise, chest pain, decreased fetal movement, calf pain or swelling, painful uterine contractions, or fluid leaking from your vagina 2 .

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

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  1. Danielle B. Cooper, and Lily Yang "Pregnancy And Exercise"Apr 17, 2023https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430821/.

  2. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists"Exercise During Pregnancy"Feb 28, 2022https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/exercise-during-pregnancy.


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Updated on Dec 8, 2023

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Can You Ride a Bike During Pregnancy?

 Lisa Smiley Profile Photo
By Dr. Lisa Smiley | Updated on Dec 8, 2023
Image for article Can You Ride a Bike During Pregnancy?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week 2 during pregnancy, and biking can be a great way to meet those recommendations. 

A stationary bike might be a better option during pregnancy because it reduces the risk of falling that comes with riding a standard bike. As your pregnancy progresses, you may need to make some adjustments on your bike to remain comfortable. To make room for your belly, raise the handlebars and scoot your seat forward. Keep your spine in a neutral position and relax your shoulders. 

One way to judge an appropriate level of intensity during exercise like biking is to use the “talk test.” 1 You should be able to hold a conversation during exercise; if you can’t, decrease the intensity to avoid overexertion. 

Stop exercise if you’re experiencing any vaginal bleeding, dizziness, headache, shortness of breath prior to exercise, chest pain, decreased fetal movement, calf pain or swelling, painful uterine contractions, or fluid leaking from your vagina 2 .

Pregnant woman holding her stomach on a bed with a plant in the background

Want evidence-based health & wellness advice for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum delivered to your inbox?

Your privacy is important to us. By subscribing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

  1. Danielle B. Cooper, and Lily Yang "Pregnancy And Exercise"Apr 17, 2023https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430821/.

  2. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists"Exercise During Pregnancy"Feb 28, 2022https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/exercise-during-pregnancy.


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