Exercising while pregnant.
Current literature on exercise and pregnancy was reviewed. Normal anatomic and physiological changes of pregnancy are briefly outlined. Benefits of maternal exercise experienced by the mother and fetus have been reported by some researchers. Other researchers have documented respiratory and cardiovascular changes peculiar to exercise during pregnancy. Effects on the fetus are also discussed. Guidelines for exercise during pregnancy are discussed with recommendations for health professionals caring for pregnant women. It is concluded that exercise during pregnancy can be safe if common sense is used and guidelines are followed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1989;10(9):358-365.
Connelly Freyder
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