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Expert Q&A

	By Tracy Underwood Child and Adolescent Psychologist Children's Medical Center of Dallas

I have been bike riding 10 miles a day. I just found out I am pregnant and was wondering if it would be all right to continue to ride my bike.

It's generally okay to continue your prepregnancy activity, as long as it's physically safe. You may have to adjust your intensity level as time passes. It's really key to listen to your body. In the first trimester you may be more tired than usual, then your energy will come back in the second trimester and you'll feel like superwoman. Slow down when necessary. Bike riding in later months is only cautioned in regards to safety for you and your baby. If there is any chance that you may fall down or get hit, then stop. You may need to adjust the seat and handle bar height if your back begins to bother you. Be sure to hydrate more than you usually do, and eat approximately 300 more calories per day to compensate for the calories you expend that could be going to your growing baby. Overall, just take care of yourself and your baby. As long as you keep your baby's best interest in mind, you will always do right."

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