The purpose of this master's thesis was to present the guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy. The relevant Slovenian and foreign literature were reviewed, and the guidelines were presented independently according to the type of sport and associated health problems of women. The master's thesis is monograph-based.
We presented the anatomical, physiological, and psychological changes in pregnancy that must be considered when designing an exercise program for pregnant women. It was discovered that physical activity during pregnancy is beneficial for all women, as there are certain types of exercises suitable also for pregnant women who were not physically active before the pregnancy. Physical activity with the appropriate frequency, intensity and duration has a positive effect on the well-being of the pregnant woman and the fetus as well as no negative effect on the course of pregnancy and childbirth. Suitable physical activities include walking, swimming, land or water aerobics, Pilates, yoga, and indoor cycling. Physical activities, such as team sports, skiing, skating, road cycling and diving, require additional adjustment or suspension of this type of physical activity.
We established that physical activity during pregnancy is safe when it is individually tailored to the women’s well-being and health condition as well as the level of physical activity before their pregnancy. A pregnant woman who has associated health problems such as hypertension, gestational diabetes, and obesity can be physically active, however, a doctor’s consultation is essential. It is recommended that a pregnant woman perform the exercise program under the supervision of a health and sports professional who is familiar with the contraindications to exercise. Physical activity can be performed every day of the week during pregnancy, yet it is necessary to increase the intensity and amount gradually. A pregnant woman should perform physical activities that she enjoys, and she should always pay attention to her well-being and listen to her body during exercise.
This master's thesis is useful for all sports and health professionals who work with pregnant women, as well as for all pregnant women who are not familiar with the type and the amount of physical activity that they can engage in during pregnancy.
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