Aerobic or cardio exercise is recommended for pregnant women at 150-300 minutes per week (Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2018). The exercise should not be too hard. Maintain ability to pass the "Talk Test," meaning you can talk during the activity. During pregnancy hormones can cause your joints to change, so it is best to focus on low-impact or non-jumping exercises. Avoid exercises during pregnancy that require lying flat on your back and those that may cause you to lose your balance, fall or cause abdominal trauma.
Prenatal workouts can be beneficial to both mom and baby. It is recommended to discuss exercise with your doctor prior to starting an exercise routine during pregnancy. Significant changes occur in a woman's body during pregnancy, so it is important to understand how exercise may need to be modified to accommodate those changes.
Suggested Equipment: None
Workout Directions: Each exercise can be repeated for 1-5 minutes.
Participating in this activity is purely voluntary. If you are not regularly active, it is recommended to consult with a physician before starting physical activity.
