Physical activity has substantial benefits for women with uncomplicated pregnancies, has minimal risks and is recommended in pregnancy guidelines.

The benefits of physical activity during pregnancy include: improved physical fitness, reduced risk of excessive weight gain, reduced risk of preeclampsia and pre-term birth, reduced low back pain improved sleep, reduced anxiety, less risk of depressive symptoms, and improved health perception and self-reported body image. On top of that, exercise during pregnancy can have additional benefits for women with comorbidities such as gestational diabetes.

Despite these benefits, more than 60% of pregnant women do not participate in physical activity as recommended.