Effects of Resistance Exercise During Pregnancy

Effects of Exercise on Back Pain in Pregnancy

Pregnant women at increased risk for back pain were studied during the second trimester and randomized to12-weeks of resistance exercise, education or waitlist. Several outcomes were assessed including physical function, quality of life and mood.

A parallel group trial was completed at a single site. Second trimester women (n=134) were randomly assigned (in blocks of 3) to 12-weeks of wait list, bi-monthly pregnancy education classes or twice weekly low-to-moderate intensity resistance training. Resistance training involved one abdominal exercise with no external load and five exercises with an external load that gradually progressed (leg extension, leg press, arm lat pull, leg curl, and lumbar extension). Several outcomes were assessed including physical function, quality of life and mood.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant and able to complete baseline testing during gestational week 21 to 25 of pregnancy.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Regular resistance exercise training (≥ twice per week during the past month)

• an orthopedic or cardiovascular limitation

• a psychiatric disorder

• or had in the current or a prior pregnancy any of the following:

  • two or more miscarriages
  • premature labor
  • placental previa,
  • poor fetal growth,
  • low pre-pregnancy body weight (BMI < 17.5)
  • a multiple birth pregnancy
  • pre-eclampsia
  • preterm rupture of membranes
  • uterine growth retardation
  • incompetent cervix/cerclage
  • recurrent vaginal bleeding
  • anemia or
  • diabetes.