Strength training during pregnancy may reduce gestational diabetes risk

New research suggests that strength training during pregnancy may reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and improve maternal quality of life. A randomized clinical trial published in ‘Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica’ studied 209 pregnant women with overweight or obesity. Participants who engaged in a structured strength training program using light weights or resistance bands from weeks 12–14 until delivery showed lower rates of gestational diabetes compared to a control group receiving standard prenatal care.

While the overall difference in diabetes incidence between the groups was not statistically significant, an exploratory subgroup of women who adhered to the program by exercising at least twice a week developed no cases of gestational diabetes. Additionally, the strength training group reported significant improvements in quality of life, including reduced anxiety, fatigue, and back or pelvic pain. The study found no increased risk of complications such as preterm or miscarriage.

Separately, a large-scale international analysis published in ‘The BMJ’ involving data from over 100 trials and nearly 36,000 women confirmed that lifestyle interventions—including walking, swimming, and aerobic exercise—provide strong preventative results against gestational diabetes. However, researchers noted that participants from lower socioeconomic or educational backgrounds may benefit less from these structured programs.