Exercise participation pre and post-partum has numerous health benefits which are well documented. However, Registered Exercise Professionals must recognise that throughout this period extra consideration and knowledge is required to design safe and appropriate exercise programs.

Pregnant women who were previously exercising may continue but should be advised to modify their exercise in accordance with general physiological changes associated with pregnancy and their individual situation.

Many women can be in a hurry to return to exercise. The type of activity and when a new mum can return to exercise depends on pre-existing fitness, her pregnancy, labour and delivery and the post-natal health of both herself and her baby.