Pregnancy can bring down many restrictions on your lifestyle and force you to give up certain hobbies temporarily. If you’re a fan of laser tag, you might be wondering if it’s safe to continue playing this fun recreational sport while conceiving a baby.
In my long tenure at lasergame arenas, I have encountered many approaches to the participation of pregnant women. While some facilities strictly restrict them from partaking in the activity, others allow them to engage at their own risk.
It is undeniable that laser tag involves a substantial amount of physical activity, and depending on the stage of maternity, it could potentially pose risks that should not be taken lightly. So, considering various factors such as lifestyle, health, and fitness conditions, it is crucial to proceed with utmost caution.
Is It Safe to Play Laser Tag While Pregnant?
Pregnancy is a time when it’s important to avoid strenuous activities, and laser tag can potentially pose risks to both the mother and the baby. It’s worth noting that the concern lies not in the laser itself, as it employs harmless IR beams instead of actual lasers. Rather, it’s the fast-paced movement and physical activity involved in the game that can make it unsafe for expecting mothers.
During my experience at laser quest facilities, I have seen pregnant women participate in the game, particularly in the first or second trimester. However, it’s crucial to highlight that these ladies appeared to be physically fit and in good health. Furthermore, there are several precautions that should be followed, which I will discuss in detail shortly.
Yes, you can play laser tag at the time of maternity, but it’s essential to prioritize the well-being and safety of both the mother and the developing baby.
Therefore, while it’s understandable that some ladies may be tempted to play due to their active lifestyle. It’s advisable to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare professional before participating in any physically demanding activities at this stage.
Related: Is Laser Tag Safe For Eyes?
Why Should You Avoid Laser Tag During The Antenatal Period?
During pregnancy, it’s crucial to prioritize the well-being of both the mother and the baby. In such a condition, playing this game poses potential risks that can jeopardize their safety. Let’s explore why it’s best to avoid laser tag when you are conceiving a baby.
1. Physical Strain
As a professional lasergame player, I understand the physical demands that come with the sport. It involves quick and agile movements, which can be quite exhausting and cause dehydration and overheating. These factors are particularly important to consider for pregnant ladies, as they need to be cautious about their energy levels and body temperature.
2. The Risk Of Falling
One of the primary concerns for playing laser tag when it comes to expecting women is the risk of falling. Most arenas are typically dimly lit to enhance the gaming experience, but this can make it challenging to see obstacles while fully engrossed in the game. Even players who are not pregnant can stumble and fall.
However, during gestation, the added weight in the belly can disrupt the center of balance, making women with a baby bump more prone to falls. Falls can have severe consequences for both the mother and the baby, potentially leading to a miscarriage.
3. Bumping Into Obstacles
In the thrilling ambiance of a laser tag arena, it’s not uncommon for players to accidentally bump into each other or collide with obstacles. The low lighting conditions can contribute to these incidents.
Pregnant women, unlike anyone else, face direct risks from such collisions. It’s worth mentioning that most laser tag arenas already prohibit running to minimize the chances of accidents. However, in the heat of the game, it’s easy to forget this rule and unintentionally put oneself and the baby at risk.
As an instructor at various facilities, it is my responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of all participants. Therefore, it’s crucial for pregnant ladies to be aware of these potential hazards and make informed decisions to protect themselves.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a medical expert and thus cannot advise you about maternity. However, having played laser tag for over two decades, I know every nook and cranny of the game and have seen many pregnant women having this particular query. For more information, I strongly advise consulting your doctor.
Also Read: Is Laser Tag A Good Date Idea?
Indoor Or Outdoor Laser Tag: Which Is Better For Pregnant Ladies?
If you decide to go ahead and play laser tag during maternity, at least, try to play it in an outdoor environment, avoiding indoors. Allow me to elaborate on the reasons behind this recommendation.
Indoor laser tag arenas, as I have previously explained, tend to feature dim lighting to enhance the overall ambiance. This intentional design choice aims to amplify the thrill and suspense of the game. However, this dim lighting can pose potential risks, especially for pregnant women who are more vulnerable to accidents.
Within these indoor facilities, there is an increased likelihood of inadvertently colliding with walls or other obstacles. It is worth mentioning that, based on my extensive experience, no major injuries have been reported as a result of such accidents. Nonetheless, for expectant mothers, even a minor impact on the belly can be potentially dangerous.
On the other hand, outdoor laser tag arenas generally offer a more spacious and obstacle-free environment, affording players greater freedom of movement. Additionally, if you choose to play during daylight hours, lighting should not be a concern whatsoever.
So, to ensure the safety of both the mother and her baby, I strongly advise pregnant girls to opt for home laser tag when participating in this activity. By doing so, you can enjoy this thrilling activity while minimizing potential risks. Also, consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in any physically demanding activities in the antenatal period.
Lasergame Rules For Playing During Maternity
While laser tag arenas commonly enforce restrictions on pregnant women participating in the game, their cautious approach is completely justified. Their primary concern is to prioritize the safety of both the expectant mother and her unborn child. Additionally, those facilities strive to avoid any potential legal complications or moral culpability in the unfortunate event of an accident.
In my tenure at one particular arena, we initially permitted pregnant women to engage in laser tag matches. However, a regrettable incident occurred involving a lady who tripped and fell during gameplay, prompting the management to reconsider their stance. Consequently, it comes as no surprise that the facilities often exercise caution when it comes to allowing expecting ladies to participate.
Even if your local facility does grant permission for gravid women to play laser tag, they will likely emphasize that you assume all responsibility and play entirely at your own risk. This serves as a gentle reminder that despite any allowance made, the inherent risks associated with the game still remain.
Pregnancy And Laser Tag: Game Modes To Choose And Avoid
While laser tag offers a plethora of exciting game modes, it is crucial for pregnant women to be mindful of their choices. Games that demand higher physical activity levels should be avoided during expectancy, as they may pose potential risks.
In the first trimester, expectant mothers can comfortably partake in solo and classic team modes without any concerns. However, as the pregnancy progresses, it becomes essential to exercise more caution in selecting game modes.
For instance, I strongly discourage playing Last Man Standing during the third trimester, as it presents greater challenges and requires extensive movement. Similarly, certain roles, like stealing the opponent’s flag in Capture the Flag mode, should also be avoided.
In parturiency, the most suitable laser tag mode is Protect the VIP, particularly when you have the opportunity to assume the role of the VIP or Queen. In this mode, the objective revolves around safeguarding your team’s VIP while simultaneously eliminating the opposing team’s VIP.
As the designated VIP, your primary responsibility entails finding a secure and well-protected position from which you can act as a lookout for your team. This role demands minimal physical movement while allowing you to actively contribute to your team’s success.
By opting for Protect the VIP in the later stages of pregnancy, expectant mothers can immerse themselves in the game and strike a balance between safety and enjoyment. In this way, they can cherish the thrill of laser tag while protecting their well-being.
Tips For Playing Laser Tag When You’re Pregnant
If you plan to play laser game at the time of your pregnancy, you should at least do your best to play safe and protect your baby and yourself. Based on my experience, the following tips should help.
- If you feel uneasy, take a break from the activity immediately. Rehydrate and take some vitamins until you feel better.
- Put on some comfortable clothes that allow you to move around freely, keeping your baby bump in mind. Also, try to wear suitable clothes that help you stay cool.
- Make sure everyone knows that you are pregnant and plays carefully around you. The “No contact” rule should be strictly followed.
- Play only with friends and family when you are antenatal. Even if you let strangers know your condition, you can’t always trust them not to tackle you.
- Remember to keep your body hydrated throughout the game – it’s easy to drain yourself in back-to-back laser tag matches. Keep a water bottle handy and drink frequently.
- Avoid taking up activity-intensive roles or trying too hard during gestation– nothing is worth a potential miscarriage.
- Lastly, I’d advise against trying out new laser tag arenas in the antenatal period. It’s easier to avoid tripping or hitting obstacles when playing at a facility where you are already familiar with the layout.
Other Activities You Should Avoid During Pregnancy
In my experience, I’ve come to realize the importance of prioritizing safety, especially for individuals who are pregnant. I strongly advise you to steer clear of activities that involve swift and vigorous movements during this delicate period. Naturally, this precautionary measure extends to traditional sports like baseball and soccer, as well as recreational sports akin to laser tag.
While alternatives such as airsoft, paintball, and gel blaster games have gained popularity among enthusiasts, it is imperative to acknowledge that this activity stands as the safest option among them all.
Consequently, if the well-being of both you and your unborn child necessitates abstaining from laser tag, it follows that engaging in the aforementioned activities should be out of the question as well.
Also Read: Laser Tag Vs Paintball Vs Airsoft
Safer Laser Tag Alternatives While You’re Expecting
Now, I understand how frustrating it can be when you’re unable to participate in laser tag or other outdoor activities at the time of pregnancy. Safety is a top priority, and it’s important to find alternative ways to stay engaged and physically active in this special period.
Riding A Stationary Bicycle: One activity that you can safely enjoy is riding a stationary bicycle. While regular bicycling poses a risk of losing balance and falling, a stationary bike provides a stable and controlled environment for you to stay active if you’re accustomed to biking regularly.
Playing Golf: Golfing is another outdoor sport that can be safe at the time of expectancy, as long as you approach it with caution and play safely. Unlike laser tag, golf doesn’t require much running and can provide a leisurely way to stay active.
Swimming: Swimming and water exercises are among the best activities for pregnant women. They not only help you stay fit and active, but they also offer the benefits of being gentle on your muscles and joints. The buoyancy from the water even supports the weight of your baby, making it a fantastic choice.
Low-impact Aerobics: Enrolling in a low-impact aerobics class is another great option for maintaining fitness during pregnancy. Just make sure to inform your instructor about your condition so they can provide modifications and ensure your safety.
Puzzle-Solving: While puzzle-solving may not provide the same level of excitement as laser tag, it’s a fantastic way to stimulate your mind without requiring much physical activity. This can be a great option for relaxing and keeping your brain sharp.
Dancing: Dancing is an activity that allows you to release endorphins and relieve stress in the phase of gestation. However, it’s important to modify your dancing habits to avoid quick and strenuous movements. Opt for slow dancing styles that help you relax rather than tire you out.
In addition to these activities, there are plenty of indoor games that you can try when you’re pregnant. If you’re unsure about the safety of a particular activity, it’s always best to consult with your doctor for personalized advice.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, I would like to reiterate that it is generally advised to avoid playing laser tag during pregnancy unless you are accustomed to a highly active lifestyle and can manage it without any complications. Depending on your overall health condition, physical mobility, and stage, you may still be able to participate in the sport if you find an arena that permits expecting women.
While it is important to acknowledge the potential risks associated with playing lasergame when you are pregnant, it is also crucial to recognize the joy and recreation it can bring.
If playing laser tag brings you happiness and you do not encounter any difficulties or concerns, then by all means, go ahead and enjoy the experience. Just remember to choose your game modes and roles carefully, and keep in mind the tips I have shared.
