Pregnancy is a time when many women experience physical changes, but that doesn't mean they need to stop exercising altogether. In fact, staying active during pregnancy offers a variety of benefits for both the mother and the baby.
Benefits of Exercising During Pregnancy:
Improved Mood and Energy: Regular exercise helps manage stress, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mood during pregnancy. It can also combat fatigue, a common complaint among pregnant women.
Healthier Pregnancy: Exercise during pregnancy can help regulate weight gain, improve circulation, and reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
Easier Labor and Delivery: Women who stay active during pregnancy may experience shorter labor, fewer complications, and quicker recovery postpartum.
New Evidence on Exercise During Pregnancy:
A 2020 study published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine found that moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is safe and beneficial for most pregnant women and can help reduce the risk of complications such as preeclampsia and excessive weight gain.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) emphasizes that pregnant women should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week unless contraindicated by a medical condition.
The Journal of Sports Medicine (2024) published a study that found high-intensity resistance exercises are well tolerated by both mother and fetus, including while using the Valsalva maneuver.
Staying active during pregnancy can have lasting benefits for both your physical health and emotional well-being. Please follow your own symptoms and doctor's recommendations on certain conditions.
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