A 20-year-old female client is pregnant for the first time. The client is a marathon runner and has been on a rigorous exercise and training program. The client asks the doula if she could still exercise while pregnant. Which of the following statements by the doula is the most appropriate for the client?
Explanation
Answer: D - A pregnant woman should always check with her doctor or midwife, first, to be sure there is no medical reason to limit her exercise routine. The client may still exercise as long as the intensity and type of exercises are modified and if non-weight-bearing exercises are incorporated into the exercise program. If a client is used to exercising before pregnancy, she may incorporate non-weight-bearing exercises, such as swimming or water aerobics, into the program. These non-impact activities can decrease the risk of injuries. The client may return to her pre-pregnancy exercise program about six weeks after the delivery to give her body sufficient time for recovery.
