The Impact of a Single Supervised Exercise Session in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy on the Physical Activity Levels of Pregnant Women—A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Despite the numerous beneficial effects of physical exercise during pregnancy, the levels of physical activity remain low. The aim of the study is to investigate the impact of a single supervised physical exercise session on the overall physical activity levels of pregnant women. Methods: During the third trimester, pregnant women attending our outpatient clinic were requested to assess their physical activity levels using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Additionally, they were invited to participate in a supervised 30 min mild–moderate-intensity aerobic exercise session (stationary bike ergometer) under the guidance of medical personnel. Subsequently, physical activity levels were reevaluated at the time of delivery. Results: Prior to the intervention, 3 out of 50 (6%) women engaged in mild–moderate physical activity for 150 min per week, while 20 out of 50 (40%) women participated in mild–moderate activity for 15–30 min, twice a week. Following the intervention, these percentages increased to 10 out of 50 (20%) and 31 out of 50 (62%), respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that a single exercise session supervised by medical personnel may significantly improve the low physical activity levels observed in pregnant women.

Keywords

• pregnancy
• physical activity
• supervised exercise session
• medical personnel