One of the most common cautions cited for the pregnant women concerns exercising while positioned in supine (lying on the back). The weight of the uterus pressing on blood vessels can reduce blood flow to the fetus which creates a potential for fetal hypoxia and possible developmental disorders. Supine exercises for pregnant women are MOST often:

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The latest guidelines from the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG; 2004) stress the need to advise pregnant exercisers to avoid the supine position after the first trimester. This is due to the relationship between the uterus and blood vessels of the thorax, especially the inferior vena cava. While supine, the pressure of the growing fetus impinges on these vessels which can, in turn, reduce cardiac output, lower blood pressure and restrict blood flow to the fetus.

One of the Most Common Cautions Cited for the Pregnant