Title:Can Group Exercise Programs Improve Health Outcomes in Pregnant Women? A Systematic Review
Volume: 11
Issue: 1
Author(s): Cristina Jorge, Rita Santos-Rocha and Teresa Bento
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Aerobics, group exercise, health outcomes, physical activity, pregnancy, quality of Life.
Abstract: Current scientific evidence supports the recommendation to initiate or continue the
practice of physical exercise in healthy pregnant women. Group exercise programs have positive effects in improving
health and well-being, as well as social support. In order to understand the scientific evidence in this field, and the
outcomes in maternal health, it has generated wide interest in exploring the studies carried out with more relevant group
exercise programs. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the available evidence on the effectiveness of group
exercise programs in improving women’s and newborns health outcomes during pregnancy. Three databases were used to
conduct literature searches and strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were employed. Seventeen studies were selected for
analysis. All studies were randomized control trials conducted with pregnant women that evaluated the effect of group
exercise programs on the health outcomes of mother and newborn. Most studies followed a supervised structured exercise
program including a main aerobic part, resistance training, pelvic floor training and stretching and relaxation sections. The
significant effects of the programs are related with improved maternal perception of health status, lower maternal weight
gain, improved levels of maternal glucose tolerance, improved aerobic fitness and muscular strength, lower frequency of
urinary incontinence, improved sick leave due to lumbopelvic pain, fewer cesarean and instrumental deliveries, higher
newborn Apgar score and faster postpartum recovery. Exercise and health professionals should advise pregnant women
that aerobic group exercise during pregnancy improves a wide range of health outcomes for the women and newborns.
