By Colleen Burns, Physiotherapist, Founder of PregFit.com.au

Easier labours, less weight gain, quicker postpartum recovery and happier mums are just some of the benefits of exercising during pregnancy.

Over the last decade there has been growing research that is finding lots of good reasons to stay active when you’re expecting.

A statement put out from Sports Medicine Australia states “ There is general agreement in most of the current research that maintenance of regular moderate intensity exercise during uncomplicated pregnancy will have significant health benefits for women”.

Some of the benefits for mum may include:  

1. Improved weight control
2. Reduced unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy
3. Easier weight loss postpartum with quicker return to pre-pregnancy weight
4. Less pregnancy-related discomforts
5. Easier labour and delivery
6. Reduced nausea
7. Better sleep and more energy
8. Reduced heartbur
9. Shorter labour (on average 1/3 shorter)
10. Few complications
11. Less inductions and C-sections
12. Reduced need for pain medications
13. Increased levels of endorphins (a natural pain-killer) during labour
14. Reduced pregnancy related aches and pains including: Reduced low-back pain, abdominal muscle disturbance and joint injuries; improved posture; increased muscle tone and strength;.
15. Better sleep
16. Improved cardiovascular system leading to fewer varicose veins, reduced leg cramps, and less swelling of feet and ankles
17. Improved mood and mental health
18. Reduced fatigue, stress and anxiety
19. Improved self-esteem
20. Less depression, reduced likelihood of post natal depression
21. Reduced risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes

Some benefits for baby may include:

Healthier babies grow into healthier children:

• Leaner babies - Reduced % body fat at birth and at 5 years old (not underweight, just less fat!)
• Less stress during labour and birth
• More alert after birth
• More settled babies
• Improved oral language, general intelligence and co-ordination as children
• Healthier heart and improved nervous system development