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Resources and Guidelines

Baby shoes

The resources and guidelines listed below are intended to assist expectant mothers to achieve healthy pregnancies. Current research says that healthy pregnant women (no obstretrical or medical problems) can safely participate in moderate aerobic activity and muscular conditioning programs. It is important to consult your physician or midwife before starting or changing an exercise program.

There are two main types of exercise:

Aerobic Exercise

  • Important in the lives of many pregnant women
  • Means raising the heart rate by moving large muscle groups

Muscular Conditioning

  • Strengthening exercises are also important to many pregnant women
  • Muscular conditioning exercises help increase or maintain muscle strength and endurance in specific muscles

Resources

Podcast "Masters in Exercise" By Marc Roig - Exercise during pregnancy with Dr. Michelle Mottola 

In this podcast Marc Roig interviews leaders in the field of exercise prescription. In this episode, Dr. Michelle Mottola talks about exercise during pregnancy.  Learn More.

Exercise During Pregnancy: What are the guidelines?

The new 2019 Canadian Guideline is evidence-based and will provide safe recommendations for being physically active throughout pregnancy. Learn More.

Get Active Questionnaire for Pregnancy

The Get Active Questionnaire for Pregnancy is a medical screening document for pregnant individuals to complete prior to being active. Download the document here.

Health Care Provider Consultation Form

This is a companion document to the Get Active Questionnaire for Pregnancy created for the Health Care Provider to assist in examining the health of pregnant individuals who wish to be active.

Download the document here.

Health Canada Guidelines for Prenatal Nutrition

A woman's nutritional and overall health, before and during pregnancy, influences the health of her developing baby. Eating well, combined with taking a daily multivitamin, can give a woman the nutrients she needs to feel good, have energy, and support a healthy pregnancy.

Learn more from Health Canada.

Middlesex-London Health Unit

The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) offers prenatal health education and physical activity programs to support new and expecting mothers in making the best decision for their own health and that of their babies.

Learn more about the prenatal health education courses and physical activity information offered by the MLHU.

Exercise is Medicine

Being active while pregnant is good for you and your baby. Start now – every minute counts!. Learn More.