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9 Tips for a Fit Pregnancy

A Guide to Nine Months of Healthful Habits

By Jennifer Lacey

Unless a mother-to-be has specific medical conditions that advise against it, expectant women should exercise moderately during the course of their pregnancies. The ACOG's newest guidelines recommend moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days.

"Although the best time to begin an exercise program is before pregnancy, moderate exercise during pregnancy is important," says Dr. Bartholomew. Not only can exercise help relieve stress, it can build up the strength and stamina an expectant mom will need to deliver her baby. Also, according to the March of Dimes, there has been evidence that exercise may help to prevent gestational diabetes (a form of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy).

Be cautious, however, about the type of exercise routine that you choose (pregnant women should avoid activities that may put themselves and their unborn baby at risk, including horseback riding, skiing, ice hockey, kickboxing and/or soccer.) Always be on the lookout for telltale signs that suggest that you may be overdoing it.

"Notify your physician if you experience any type of injury, vaginal bleeding or leaking, shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, muscle weakness and regular contractions during exercise or at any time," says Dr. Bartholomew.

Want to see more?

• Pregnancy May Make You Smarter
• Exercise Your Way Through Pregnancy
• Pregnant? It's Not Too Late to Start Exercising
• Talk about it!