Physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness during pregnancy and the current situation in Chile; a narrative review

Abstract

Physical activity and exercise during pregnancy are beneficial for the mother, reducing the risk of developing conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, as well as for the fetus by decreasing complications such as fetal macrosomia and respiratory outcomes, leading to an improved perinatal outcome. In the same way, a better physical fitness is associated to better perinatal outcomes. Worldwide, there are several recommendations regarding the appropriate physical activity levels necessary to obtain these benefits. Most agree that at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week should be achieved. Despite this, physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness during pregnancy have been poorly explored in Chile, and thus there is a gap in knowledge on this subject. This review aims to compile the evidence available in Chile on physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness during pregnancy, identifying the main knowledge gaps on this topic.