The results of new studies have shown that exercising with weights is safe and beneficial for pregnant women if they are performed under supervision and that they are exercising with moderate intensity.

“Doctors are reluctant to advise pregnant women lifting weights because so far there is little evidence that this manner of exercise is safe and effective. However, the results of our study showed that weight training and moderate intensity under the strict supervision is safe place for women with non-risk pregnancy,” says Patrick O’Connor, professor at the University of Georgia.

One of the reasons why doctors are reluctant to prescribe weight training for pregnant women is the hormone relaxin, which is secreted by the ovaries during pregnancy.Because of him, connective tissue becomes weakened and the body is ready for delivery. In addition, increased tissue laxity may be connected with orthopedic injuries – the experts explain.

In order to avoid all those problems, the researchers suggest low to moderate exercise intensity to prevent injuries associated with increased amounts of the hormone relaxin in the body.