Physical activity for pregnant women (text of the infographic)
Published 7 September 2019
© Crown copyright 2019
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/physical-activity-guidelines-pregnancy-and-after-childbirth/physical-activity-for-pregnant-women-text-of-the-infographic
The infographic summarises the UK Chief Medical Officers’ physical activity guidelines, 2019.
Physical activity:
- helps to control weight gain
- improves fitness
- helps reduce high blood pressure problems
- improves sleep
- helps to prevent diabetes of pregnancy
- improves mood
If you’re not active, start gradually.
If you’re already active, keep going.
Throughout pregnancy aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity every week.
This can be achieved:
- at home
- during leisure
- out and about
Examples of moderate intensity physical activity include:
- climbing stairs
- yoga
- swimming
- gym activities (such as using the treadmill)
- carrying grocery shopping bags
- cycling
- dancing
- going for a walk
Do muscle strengthening activities twice per week.
Every activity counts, every minute counts, more is better.
There is no evidence of harm.
Listen to your body and adapt.
Do not bump the bump.