Facts About Prenatal Exercise That Will Turn Your World Upside Down
Exercise can be the most invigorating and relaxing experience of your day. It boosts energy, enhances health, and aids in a restful nights sleep, three very important needs of a pregnant woman. The benefits of prenatal exercise go well beyond energy and sleep yet many women are still reluctant to continue or start a program during pregnancy. This is likely due to the outdated or misguided information making its rounds.
Fortunately, there are some amazing governing medical bodies that create guidelines and standards for medical and fitness professionals to use with their prenatal clients (if only every practitioner knew about these!). These guidelines are based off of an ever growing mountain of research that supports exercise during the most sensitive time in a woman's life.
ACOG Guidelines
The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology (ACOG) sets the standard for medical practices when it comes to women. ACOG explains that continuing or starting an exercise program is not only safe during a normal, healthy pregnancy but it is also recommended. They advise at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. They even go as far as combating rumors that are causing some women to refrain from exercise. They state, "Physical activity does not increase your risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, or early delivery."