Key points
- Stop exercising for vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, painful regular contractions, dizziness, chest pain, or calf swelling.
- Ask about an activity plan at your prenatal visit.
Keep moving in a way that fits your pregnancy
For most uncomplicated pregnancies, regular activity supports fitness, mood, and comfort. ACOG recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Moderate means you can still carry on a conversation. If you are starting out, begin with short sessions and build gradually.
Walking, swimming, a stationary bike, and appropriately modified strength exercises are common options. Your usual activity and your health history help determine what is right for you.
Make room for comfort and safety
Drink water, take breaks, and avoid overheating. In Davie's heat, an indoor walk or cooler time of day may feel better. Avoid contact sports, scuba diving, activities with a high risk of falling, and hot yoga. Modify prolonged exercise flat on your back as pregnancy progresses, and change position if you feel lightheaded.
Bleeding, cervical or placental problems, preterm labor risk, and some heart or lung conditions may require a different plan. Ask your OB before exercising if you have complications or have been given activity restrictions. ACOG exercise guidance
Know when to stop
Stop exercising for vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, painful regular contractions, dizziness, chest pain, or calf swelling. Get prompt medical guidance; chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or fainting warrants emergency care.
Questions about your pregnancy? Contact Davie ObGyn in Davie, Florida, at 954-880-1010. New and established patients are welcome. This information supports your prenatal care and does not replace an individual medical assessment. For urgent symptoms, call your care team promptly; for an emergency, call 911. Do not use a routine online message for urgent symptoms.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.