Pregnancy and exercise: What you can (and can't) do safely

Published June 1, 2023

Pregnancy might seem like a good time to sit back and relax, but unless you're experiencing complications, sitting around won't help you or your baby.

In fact, pregnancy can be a great time to get active – even if you haven't exercised in a while. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week or 30 minutes per day.

Below, we discuss the benefits of staying active and what you should and shouldn't do during pregnancy.

Exercising during pregnancy can:

The following activities are generally considered safe during pregnancy:

While many activities are safe for pregnancy, there are a few you should avoid:

Whether you choose to workout at home, outside or at the gym, the following tips can help you stay safe during pregnancy:

Stop the activity and contact your doctor or midwife if you:

It's always a good idea to discuss what you can and can't do with your doctor or midwife before starting any exercise. For more information or to schedule an appointment with a women's health expert, call 800.922.0000.

The pelvic floor is an integral part of our body structure. When these muscles function correctly, they act as shock absorbers for our body's entire core. If you think of

Here's how to work exercise into your daily routine and tips for starting an exercise program at home.

How can you get a great workout without ever leaving home? An exercise physiologist shows how to get in shape with a video, using just two easy-to-find and inexpensive devices.