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The effects of exercise on pregnant women have long been known, but new evidence has suggested that being fit during pregnancy can also be good for the unborn baby.
The study, conducted by Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, indicated that women who exercise during gestation can help their developing baby acquire better foetal heart health and a more robust nervous system.
Aerobic exercise of moderate intensity that lasted at least 30 minutes was prescribed three times per week to the study participants, all of which were aged between 20 and 35 years old. These women were checked between the 36th and 38th weeks of pregnancy, and their results were subsequently compared to expectant mums who did not exercise regularly.
The babies of the women who exercised had a more mature respiratory system compared to the offspring of the non-exercisers, suggesting they would fare better after birth.
However, pregnant women should avoid excessive exercising and must keep heart rate levels below 130 beats per minute to avoid potential harm to their unborn child. Therefore, advice should always be sought from adequately qualified fitness professionals before you embark on a pre natal exercise program.
Labels: aerobic exercise, exercise, exercise program, expectant mums, foetal heart health, nervous system, pre natal, pregnancy, pregnant women, unborn baby
Posted by: Theo Wood | 18th April 2009 |
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