The exercise proyram for a pregnant woman needs to be individualized. Many women choose to continue their previous modes of exercise and to modify the inten.sity and duration of exercise . If a woman had been jogging or running prior to conception, she may continue to do so if there are no contraindications. On the other hand, it is not recommended that a woman start a jogging program during pregnancy. As the pregnancy progresses, the woman should gradually decrease the speed and distance of her runs.
Cycling is a good nonweightbearing activity during pregnancy.
Many women find riding a stationary bicycle safer than riding on the road, as the changes in the body 's center of gravity can affect balance. The pregnant woman may continue her aerobics classes, provided she modifies some of the exercises to minimize ballistic movements and extended periods of time in the supine position. Many women prefer to participate in an aerobics program in the water as the pregnancy progresses. Swimming is a recommended sport during pregnancy. It is non weightbearing, good for cardiovascular fitness, and can be initiated during pregnancy.