Components of Exercise Prescription and Pregnancy

Abstract

Physicians should discuss decreasing sedentary time and behavior with their pregnant patients to assist sedentary women to become more active using light activities. Medical screening before engaging or continuing in a moderate aerobic exercise program is vital to ensure a low-risk pregnancy. The FITT principle is important to use in prescription that suggests: Frequency (3 to 4 times per week), Intensity (appropriate target heart rate zone, rating of perceived exertion scale, or the talk test), Time (start at 15 min progressing to 30 min), and Type (moving large muscles groups such as walking, swimming, and cycling) of physical activity.