27/12/2025
Current scientific evidence and clinical guidelines confirm that exercise during pregnancy is safe for most women. Organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity, including activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or stationary cycling, throughout pregnancy. Large systematic reviews and meta-analyses consistently show that prenatal exercise does not increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, or low birth weight when there are no medical contraindications.
Research also demonstrates clear, measurable benefits for both mother and baby. Regular exercise during pregnancy reduces the risk of gestational diabetes by approximately 30–40%, lowers the incidence of pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia, limits excessive gestational weight gain, and is associated with shorter labor and lower rates of cesarean delivery. For infants, maternal physical activity is linked to healthy fetal growth, improved placental function, and favorable birth outcomes, with emerging evidence suggesting potential long-term benefits for cardiometabolic health.
