Pregnancy and Exercise

Exercising is not a new idea when it comes to promoting a healthy pregnancy, but how beneficial exercise can be to both the mother and developing fetus can not be emphasized enough.

Some of the benefits to the mother are a decrease in blood pressure, less fatigue and soreness from pregnancy related body changes, plus a faster and easier labor and delivery. In addition, the fetus benefits through increased umbilical blood flow, better oxygen transfer across the placenta, better tolerance of the stresses of labor, and more alertness with a better ability to be self-quieting after delivery.

Recommended exercises are swimming, walking, stationary cycling, and light weight training.

Generally speaking exercises can be very important during pregnancy but the appropriateness of exercise must be decided on an individual basis.

If you are pregnant please first consult your doctor on the appropriate types of exercises and possible risk factors.


Martens, D., Hernandez, B., Strickland, G., Boatwright, D. Pregnancy and Exercise: Physiological Changes and Effects on the Mother and Fetus. Strength and Conditioning Journal. Vol. 28 No. 1, pg 78-82.

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