Patterns in exercise behaviour across pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study of physically active individuals from pre-conception to postpartum
Our findings highlight that active pregnant individuals exceed weekly exercise recommendations, yet adapt their training load throughout pregnancy. These findings emphasise the importance of considering physical activity recommendations as relative in nature, and interpreting them in the context of previous exercise behaviours. Exercise professionals should provide individualised support to active individuals in their pregnancy and postpartum journeys.
Authors
- Kate Oxnard
- Jemima Spathis (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1980-3212)
- Kassia S. Beetham (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4657-7668)
- Dr Rich Johnston
- Evelyn B. Parr
Institutions
- Leeds Beckett University (GB)
- James Cook University (AU)
- Australian Catholic University (AU)
Publication Details
- Journal
- European Journal of Applied Physiology
- Published
- 2026-02-25
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-026-06160-6
- Primary Topic
- Gestational Diabetes Research and Management
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- Australian Government
- Australian Catholic University