Playing Pickleball Game is Safe During Pregnancy? Latest ACOG Guidelines Explained

Pickleball is booming in popularity as a fun, easy-to-learn paddle sport that's great for all ages. But if you're a pregnant woman who loves hitting the pickleball court, you might wonder: is playing pickleball game safe during pregnancy? Don't worry—we'll break it down simply, using the latest guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). We'll look at what experts say, how to play pickleball safely if you're expecting, and when it's best to sit it out. Let's dive in and keep things light and enjoyable, like a friendly game on the court!

In this blog, we talk about whether playing pickleball game is safe during pregnancy. ACOG’s 2020 guidelines say it’s usually okay early on with your doctor’s approval, but some risks might catch you off guard—keep reading to learn how to stay safe on the court!

What Is Pickleball? A Quick Overview for Newbies

If you're new to racquet sports or paddle sports, pickleball is a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It's played on a pickleball court that's smaller than a tennis court—about the size of a badminton court—with a net in the middle. Players use a pickleball paddle (or Pickleball Paddles, as they're often called) to hit a plastic ball back and forth. The pickleball rules are straightforward: games are usually to 11 points, you must win by 2, and there's a "kitchen" zone near the net where you can't volley the ball.

Why do people love to play pickleball? It's low-impact compared to other racquet sports, making it social and active without too much strain. You can play singles or doubles, indoors or outdoors, and it's perfect for building fitness in a fun way. If you're already into playing pickleball before pregnancy, you might be eager to keep going!

ACOG Guidelines on Exercise for Pregnant Women

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) is the go-to expert for advice on pregnancy health. Their latest guidelines on physical activity during pregnancy come from 2020, and as of 2025, there haven't been any big updates to change the basics. ACOG encourages pregnant women to stay active because it can help with energy, mood, and even easier labor. Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Committee Opinion No. 804, April 2020.

Here's the key advice in simple terms:

• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. That's like 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
• If you were active before getting pregnant, keep doing what you love—with some tweaks if needed.
• Moderate means you can still talk while moving, but you're breathing a bit harder. Think brisk walking or swimming.
• Strength training is okay too, but avoid heavy lifting that strains your belly.
• Always check with your doctor first, especially if you have any health issues.

ACOG says exercise is safe and helpful for most pregnant women, as long as your pregnancy is going smoothly. It can lower risks like high blood pressure and make you feel stronger overall.

Is Pickleball Game Safe for Pregnant Women? Let's Apply the Guidelines

Now, onto the big question: can you play pickleball while pregnant? Pickleball isn't specifically mentioned in ACOG's guidelines, but we can use their advice on similar activities. As a paddle sport, it's generally low-impact, which is a plus. Many women continue playing pickleball during early pregnancy if they feel good and make smart changes.

The Good Side: Why Pickleball Might Be Okay

• Moderate Fun: Pickleball gets your heart pumping at a moderate level, fitting ACOG's 150-minute goal. It's great for staying fit without overdoing it.
• Social Boost: Playing pickleball can lift your spirits and connect you with friends—important for pregnant women dealing with mood swings.
• Low Risk Early On: In the first trimester, if you're used to racket sports, pickleball pregnant play can be fine. The quick movements build balance and strength.

Expert pickleball opinion often agrees: moderate activities like this are safe for uncomplicated pregnancies. Just use a good pickleball paddle that's light and easy to handle.

Potential Risks and How to Handle Them

But pregnancy changes your body—your center of gravity shifts, joints loosen, and you might tire faster. Here's what to watch for in pickleball:

• Balance and Falls: Quick turns on the pickleball court could lead to slips, especially after the first trimester. ACOG warns against activities with high fall risk. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Committee Opinion No. 804, April 2020.
• Overheating: Stay cool and hydrated. Avoid hot days or long games.
• Collisions: In doubles, watch for bumps from other players. Pickleball rules allow for fun, but safety first!

If you're in the second or third trimester, many sources suggest scaling back or stopping pickleball pregnant play. Your growing belly might make swinging a pickleball paddle harder, and the risk of strain goes up.

Tips for Safe Playing Pickleball During Pregnancy

Want to keep enjoying the pickleball game? Follow these easy tips based on ACOG and expert advice:

1. Talk to Your Doctor: Get the green light first. They know your health best.
2. Modify Your Game: Play doubles to share the effort, stay in the back of the court, and avoid dives or hard smashes.
3. Listen to Your Body: If you feel dizzy, short of breath, or have pain, stop right away. ACOG lists warning signs like these.
4. Gear Up Right: Choose comfy shoes for the pickleball court and a supportive pickleball paddle. Stay hydrated and take breaks.
5. Start Slow: If you're new to paddle sports, begin with short sessions and build up.

Remember, every pregnancy is different. What works for one woman might not for another.

When Should You Avoid Pickleball Altogether?

ACOG is clear: skip activities with high contact, falls, or belly trauma. If you have complications like high blood pressure or a high-risk pregnancy, put down the pickleball paddle. By the third trimester, most experts recommend switching to gentler options like walking or yoga to avoid strain.

If pickleball feels off, there are plenty of other ways for pregnant women to stay active—swimming, prenatal classes, or even light dancing.

Final Thoughts

Playing pickleball during pregnancy can be a joyful way to stay fit, as long as you follow ACOG's guidelines and listen to your body. For many, it’s a safe paddle sport in the early stages, but always prioritize your health and your baby’s. If in doubt, chat with your doctor—they’re your best teammate! Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Committee Opinion No. 804, April 2020.

Love pickleball? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments. Whether you're a pro with Pickleball Paddles or just learning pickleball rules, staying active can make pregnancy more fun. Stay safe out there on the court! 

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