Physical Activity During Pregnancy
Finding the Right Balance Too little activity (< 30 min/week) Raises risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and excessive weight gain Slows postpartum recovery and increases fatigue Leads to poorer sleep and mood regulation Fix: Add short daily walks, gentle yoga, or light stretching — consistency matters more than duration Just right (≈ 150 min/week of moderate activity) Improves cardiovascular health, mood, and sleep Reduces complications and supports healthy fetal growth Builds endurance for labor and recovery Fix: Maintain steady routines like brisk walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga; hydrate and rest Too much (vigorous or prolonged activity without rest) Can cause overheating, dehydration, or reduced uterine blood flow May trigger dizziness, contractions, or exhaustion Fix: Scale intensity, shorten sessions, and monitor symptoms; consult your provider How Prior Activity Level Matters Active before pregnancy: You can usually maintain your routine with minor adjust...