Pregnancy, Lifestyle
Moving your body while pregnant, without the fear
How much activity is recommended, what suits each trimester, and the signs that mean stop and get checked rather than push through.
Reviewed against ACOG, 1 min read, published
For most straightforward pregnancies, movement is encouraged rather than tolerated: something like 150 minutes of moderate activity across the week. Walking counts. Swimming counts. So does the prenatal class where you mostly breathe.
Carrying on, adjusting as you go
If you were active before, you can usually carry on, adjusting as your balance shifts and your energy comes and goes. What gets set aside is contact sport and anything where a fall is likely.
If you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal, it is safe to continue or start regular physical activity.
If your pregnancy has complications
Ask what applies to you specifically. General advice is a starting point, not a ruling.
Quick summary
- Aim for: about 150 minutes of moderate activity across the week
- Set aside: contact sport and anything where a fall is likely
- Stop and get advice: bleeding, dizziness, chest pain, calf pain or swelling, leaking fluid, or contractions that keep coming
- Complications: ask what applies to you specifically
