There is an increasing number of female athletes who have become pregnant and have challenged societal norms that pregnancy and being a mother prevents successful performance as an athlete.
Even as a non-elite athlete or as someone who just enjoys exercising for their general health, it is safe to continue training and exercising during pregnancy if it is done in a sensible and informed manner.
Current UK government guidelines on exercising during pregnancy do not consider women who undertake a higher level than the recommended amount of minimum physical activity and want to continue this through their pregnancy.
Considerations of exercise and pregnancy include:
Pre-pregnancy: it is important to think through the possibility of any factors associated with sport or exercise which may have an impact on fertility e.g. are you getting enough nutrition in to support the exercise you take part in – if not your body will not prioritise fertility.
Pregnancy: are there any reasons that exercise in your pregnancy would be unsafe? e.g. combat sports.
If not, exercise can provide many benefits during pregnancy.
Exercise and sport advice should be individualised for each athlete and pregnancy but there are important pieces of general advice you can follow.
It is important to know when to stop exercising during pregnancy and if you have any concerns then you should talk to your doctor.
