Pregnancy and Postpartum Training: Coaching Considerations

Exercise is beneficial for women to continue during pregnancy and the postpartum period. However, many women do not meet the minimum guidelines set forth by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Strength and conditioning coaches and personal trainers working specifically with athletes and nonathletes during childbearing years should continue to encourage their clientele to exercise. Educating them on altering their current exercise program and adapting it as they progress through their pregnancy into the postpartum period is important. General recommendations for exercise and certain modifications may be needed as many physical and physiological adaptations occur within the body during this time.