What is recommended for prenatal participants regarding exercise?

For prenatal participants, avoiding high-impact activities is recommended because their bodies undergo significant changes throughout pregnancy. High-impact exercises can increase the risk of injury and discomfort due to hormonal changes that lead to increased joint laxity and altered center of gravity.

Additionally, high-impact activities may put excessive strain on the pelvic floor and could lead to issues such as incontinence or pelvic pain. Low-impact exercises, on the other hand, are typically safer and can help improve cardiovascular endurance, maintain strength, and support overall well-being during pregnancy without posing the same risks associated with high-impact movements.

It is generally advisable for pregnant individuals to focus on activities that are gentle, such as walking, swimming, or modified aerobic exercises, allowing them to stay active while ensuring safety for both the mother and the developing baby.