1. Exercise and Pregnancy Based on NASM CPT Textbook & ACE CPT Textbook
© 2018 NPTI Colorado  | Slide 1 | Revision 5 (6/17/18) DM

2. Lecture Objectives Students should be able to:.
Describe the physical and functional limitations to exercise for pregnant clients.
Understand the benefits of exercise before, during, and after pregnancy
Describe how to modify a program design for pregnant clients

3. Exercise During Pregnancy
Healthy pregnant women without exercise contraindications are encouraged to exercise throughout pregnancy. Always obtain physician clearance and guidelines before exercising
ACE

4. Exercise During Pregnancy
The general consensus is that most recreational pursuits are appropriate
Those already engaged in an exercise program before pregnancy may continue with moderate levels until the third trimester.
Exercise prescription should be modified according to abilities, symptoms, and discomforts.

5. Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy
ACE

6. Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy
Regular exercise during pregnancy reduces the risk of:
Pregnancy-induced hypertension –having two or more resting blood pressure measurements on separate days that include one of the following:
Systolic BP: ≥ 130 mm Hg
Diastolic BP: ≥ 80 mm Hg
Gestational diabetes -high blood sugar occurring during pregnancy in pregnant women not previously known to have diabetes.
ACE

7. Exercise During Pregnancy
Pregnant women should:
Obtain a medical clearance prior to beginning an exercise program
Gradually increase exercise to meet the physician’s physical activity guidelines
Use the RPE scale and choose an intensity that is comfortable
Choose exercises for large muscle groups and to strengthen the pelvic floor
Wear supportive clothing and shoes
Stay hydrated
ACE

8. Exercise During Pregnancy
Pregnant women should NOT:
Begin a vigorous program during pregnancy
Engage in contact sports/activities that may cause a loss of balance or trauma
After the first trimester:
Exercise in the prone or supine positions
Perform uncontrolled twisting of the torso
Use hip ab/adduction machines
Exercise during high temperatures or humidity
Perform isometric exercises or the Valsalva maneuver during exercise
ACE

9. Exercise During Pregnancy
Review Table
ACOG Exercise Recommendations:

10. Exercise During Pregnancy
Review Table

11. Body Changes During Pregnancy
Women in the childbearing period are vulnerable to:
Nausea
Dizziness
Fainting
The gradual growth of the fetus can alter posture, making flexibility and core training important.

12. Body Changes During Pregnancy
Increased weight of the breasts may cause forward-head posture and an increased kyphotic curve in the thoracic spine. 
Weakened and stretched abdominal muscles increases the lordotic curve.
Weight shift to the back of the legs and feet can contribute to hyperextension of the legs.
Relaxin hormone increases joint laxity, contributing to malalignment of the low back and pelvis.

13. Exercise after Pregnancy
Following delivery, women require some recovery time to regain strength
Taking care of a newborn is a lot of work!
Loss of sleep can easily lead to a fatigued state
Gradually increase physical activity as a means of relaxation, personal time, and a regaining of the sense of control (not improving physical fitness)

14. Exercise after Pregnancy
Trainers should not allow a client to rush into a post-partum program.
Postnatal women should be encouraged to re-educate:
Posture
Joint alignment
Muscle imbalances
Stability
Motor skills
Recruitment of deep core stabilizers

15. Exercise after Pregnancy
After delivery, women should adhere to the following guidelines:
Obtain physician clearance and guidelines prior to resuming or starting an exercise program
Begin slowly and gradually increase duration – and then intensity. Goal is to develop consistency
Start with walking several times a week
Avoid excessive fatigue & dehydration

16. Exercise after Pregnancy
After delivery, women should adhere to the following guidelines (cont’d):
Wear a supportive bra
Stop the exercise session if unusual pain is experienced
Stop the exercise session and seek medical evaluation if bright red vaginal bleeding occurs that is heavier than a normal menstrual period
Drink plenty of water and eat appropriately

17. Get Certified Get certified to train pre- and post-natal clients
Oh Baby! Fitness® Pregnancy and Postpartum Exercise Instructor Training
ACE Continuing Education Course

18. Any questions?