What is the connection between physical activity, exercise, fitness, and pregnancy?
Physical activity is about moving around and being less sedentary. Exercise is a more systematic, routine form of physical activity. Both or either can lead to all-around improved health and fitness, and by extension, to a healthier pregnancy. Specifically, physical activity, in appropriate amounts can decrease the risk of developing conditions and their complications such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, some forms of cancer, and osteoporosis. Physical activity and exercise can help to: • relieve stress, anxiety, and depression • help you maintain a healthy weight • help you sleep better • boost your energy • help fight off colds and flu by boosting your immune system (your body’s defense system against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites) • give you strength and endurance to carry your baby both before and after it’s born • build the stamina you might need during labor • improve the quality of your life in general Getting into the habit of being as active as you c
