Moderate resistance exercise good during pregnancy

Contrary to popular perception, moderate resistance exercise can relieve symptoms related to pregnancy such as back pain, fatigue, headache and nausea, among others, and improve sense of control, says a new study.

Traditionally, swimming, walking and other mild physical activities, along with resistance exercise, are often recommended for pregnant women.

"Our findings suggest that moderate resistance exercise is suitable during pregnancy," said researcher Karolina Petrov Fieril, physical therapist who conducts research at Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg in Sweden.

The study, conducted as part of Fieril's PhD thesis, examined the effects of both aerobics and resistance exercise session on blood pressure and heart rate.

"Women who engaged in resistance exercise experienced improved wellbeing, relief of pregnancy discomfort (poor posture, fatigue, headache, nausea, insomnia and back pain) and greater sense of control," Fieril said.

"We found that these vital signs were equally affected and within safe values by both types of exercise," Fieril said in a statement released by University of Gothenburg.