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People Who Are Pregnant

How Much Do I Need?

Guidelines for pregnant people are the same as other adults. People who are pregnant should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week during pregnancy and the postpartum period (after giving birth).8,14 This activity should be spread throughout the week rather than done all at once.

Special Considerations

  • People who are pregnant should be under the care of a health care provider who can monitor the progress of the pregnancy. People who are pregnant should ask their health care provider if they should or how they can adjust their physical activity during pregnancy and after giving birth.
  • People who are pregnant who already do vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, such as running, can usually continue doing so during and after their pregnancy.8,14 Be sure to check with your health care provider.
  • According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other scientific evidence, low birth weight, early delivery, or pregnancy loss are not risks that are increased by physical activity.
  • 14

For more information about physical activity during pregnancy and the postpartum period visit: https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pregnancy/index.htm

pregnant person lifting light weights

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