Preliminary studies on the fetal heart indicate that if the mother exercises during pregnancy if may affect the fetal heart is a favorable way. Exercise Guidelines During Pregnancy Mode 1. Choice of exercise depends on the woman's preference and available facilities to exercise. Mother's health and progress of pregnancy should be monitored by an obstetrician. Good counsel and group classes specifically designed for pregnant women are ideal.
Purpose is to achieve and maintain cardiovascular fitness, strength, and flexibility.
Participation in competitive sports should be avoided. As pregnancy progresses, heart rate increases meaning that exercise intensity will decrease as one approaches term. Pregnant women should not reach exhaustion. Frequency and Duration 1. Women should be encouraged to have fetal monitoring performed for the duration of the pregnancy.