Hoping for a Shorter Labor? This Is How Much Exercise You Need

Nobody said working out during pregnancy would be comfortable, easy or particularly enjoyable. But studies from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) have proven again and again that exercise is part of a healthy pregnancy; it reduces your preeclampsia risk, lowers the chance you’ll need a c-section, and helps you lose weight faster postbaby. While ACOG has previously explained working out can improve your stamina for labor, one study in particular says it can actually shorten labor by about an hour.

A randomized clinical trial published in The European Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Biology followed 508 healthy pregnant women and split them into two groups: a control group and an exercise group. The exercise group followed a moderate aerobic exercise program three times per week throughout their second and third trimesters. And that consistent exercise paid off: On average, their labors lasted 450 minutes, compared to 507 in the control group.

Admittedly, that’s still a long time: 7.5 hours versus 8.5 hours. But the study also noted that women in the exercise group were less likely to use an epidural.

The challenge—beyond mustering up the energy to exercise three times per week in your third trimester—is making sure you’re working out safely. Always consult your doctor first, but if you were active before pregnancy, there’s generally no reason you can’t maintain an active lifestyle during pregnancy. Yoga, swimming, pilates, running and walking make the list of standard pregnancy-safe workouts. Check out some specific moves, along with a list of dos and don’ts, here.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.