Check out this video to learn how exercise can help manage diabetes in pregnancy:

We recognize that each pregnancy is unique. Some pregnant women are excited to continue exercising in pregnancy while others don’t even know where to start. We want to reassure you that exercise can be tailored to your interests and abilities. Here is a guide to exercise in pregnancy:

1. Pre-participation screening:

• All women without restrictions are encouraged to exercise in pregnancy.
• If you wonder whether you might have restrictions, complete the Get Active Questionnaire for Pregnancy to see whether you might need to speak to your doctor before starting or continuing exercise. Click here to access the questionnaire.

If you answered YES to any questions on page one, please speak to your doctor before beginning or continuing exercise. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to your doctor. They can guide you through starting or continuing exercise in pregnancy.

2. Getting active:

• Below is an evidence-based guideline for physical activity in pregnancy from the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology.
• If you were inactive before pregnancy, we recommend a progressive adjustment toward these recommendations.

Moderate intensity exercise:  your heart rate goes up and you may sweat or breathe hard. You can talk but cannot sing.

3. Checking-in with how you feel. The guideline explains:

• You may need to modify activities as your pregnancy progresses.
• There may also be times when you are too tired or uncomfortable to exercise. We encourage you to do what you can.
• If you develop any concerns, please notify your healthcare provider.

4. If you have any questions, please reach out to your doctor or a certified exercise professional with a specialization in pregnancy and exercise

Try to incorporate moderate intensity activities on most days of the week. Activities could include aerobic exercise or resistance training.

Aerobic exercise examples:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Stationary cycling

Resistance training examples:

• Click here for a lower body workout video
• Click here for an upper body workout video