For as long as I can remember I’ve heard my mom and other women of similar age talking about how, “when I was pregnant I was drinking and smoking!”  Although hard to believe today it’s very true!  Just look at how times have changed….  

1950s – 1970
If you choose to exercise be sure it’s no more than - 1 mile walk broken up into several sessions. Low intensity/duration.

Gain only 10-15lbs in order to keep the baby’s weight low and to reduce problems with the delivery of a large baby. This will also help with mom having to lose weight after the baby is born.

Alcohol Consumption is safe. Smoking is safe. Just don’t overdue the exercise.
1962
Prematurity and low birth weight is associated with mortality (death) and morbidity (disease). Maybe pregnant women do indeed need to gain more weight?! (Ya think?!)

1985
Weight recommendation for pregnant women increases. Pregnant women are now encouraged to gain approximately 25 lbs. A chubby baby is considered a “healthy” baby! Most Aerobic exercise is safe as long as only 15 minutes in duration and HR is <140 BPM. Tobacco and alcohol consumption during pregnancy could potentially cause health risks to the fetus such as low birth weight, fetal alcohol syndrome and other birth defects. Alcohol and tobaccos use is not recommended.

1994    
Women with uncomplicated pregnancies can exercise using the same safety recommendations as a non-pregnant woman. Research does not support concerns that exercise may be hazardous to the fetus or the mother, however if you were not exercising before getting pregnant don’t begin a new exercise program. Alcohol consumption and tobacco use is highly discouraged.

Today’s Recommendation*

• Absolutely no consumption of alcohol or tobacco use for pregnant women!
• Weight Gain recommendations are individual and based on pre-pregnancy weight. Healthy, Fit women with normal pregnancies may begin or continue a regular exercise program. The exercise should be regular, weight bearing and strenuous.
• No data to support pregnant women should limit exercise or heart rate during exercise.
• Avoid exercise in the supine (on back) position after the first 12 weeks.
• Prolonged periods of motionless standing should be avoided
• Be aware of more oxygen use and modify the exercise
• Exercise to Fatigue NOT exhaustion
• Studies now show that leaner babies are healthier babies with a lower chance of becoming obese adults.

Although exercise has tremendous benefits for pregnant women and baby, please consult your physician before engaging in an exercise program.

Coming soon to a location near you – “Fit 4 Baby”- Tampa’s First Prenatal Exercise Class! Call 813.952.7277 or email nataliejohnson@strollerstrides.net for more information