Methodology of Exercise and Pregnancy in Women and a Proposed Plan for Standardization

Abstract

The data and professional opinions regarding exercise during pregnancy has not always been consistent. Over time, results from research have found that in general, the effects of exercise are either neutral or beneficial to both the mother and the fetus. Moderate exercise is preventative in various diseases that are common in pregnancy and its benefits on both the child and the mother can be lifelong. However, studying pregnancy and exercise can be difficult due to inconsistency in the methodology of studies in the field. Standardization of the methodology is critical in order to decrease ambiguity in the field and produce results that can be compared effectively.