Exercise During Pregnancy

There is no reason why you can't exercise during pregnancy. The key is to choose low-impact activities (such as walking, swimming, or riding a stationary bike) that are unlikely to cause you injury. Staying active while pregnant can result in benefits for you and your baby, including stronger muscles, improved blood flow, and a shorter labor.

 

Can I Exercise During Pregnancy?

Almost all women can, and should, be physically active and get exercise during pregnancy. Talk to your healthcare provider first, however, particularly if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia, bleeding, or other disorders, or if you are obese or underweight.
 
Whether or not you were active before you were pregnant, ask your healthcare provider about a level of exercise that is safe for you. Aim to do at least 30 minutes of a moderate activity (one that makes you breathe harder but does not overwork or overheat you) on most days of the week.
 

The Benefits of Exercising When Pregnant

Regular, moderate exercise during pregnancy may:
 
 
  • Help you and your baby gain the proper amounts of weight
  • Reduce the discomforts of pregnancy, such as backaches, leg cramps, constipation, bloating, and swelling
  • Improve your mood, energy level, and feelings about the way you look
  • Strengthen your muscles and improve your blood flow
  • Improve your sleep
  • Help you have an easier, shorter labor
  • Help you recover from delivery and return to a healthy weight faster.
     
(Exercise During Pregnancy Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD