The Importance of Exercise During Pregnancy: How Physical Therapy Supports a Healthy Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most incredible experiences in a woman’s life — but it also comes with major changes to the body. As your body adapts to support a growing baby, it’s common to experience discomforts like low back pain, hip pain, or pelvic pain. The good news? Regular, guided exercise — especially under the care of a physical therapist — can help keep you strong, mobile, and feeling your best throughout pregnancy and beyond.
At Onward Physical Therapy (Formerly Loon State Physical Therapy) in Minneapolis, we specialize in helping women move safely and confidently during every stage of pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Why Exercise Matters for a Healthy Pregnancy
Research consistently shows that staying active during pregnancy supports both mom and baby. Exercise can help:
• Reduce pain and stiffness associated with postural changes
• Promote circulation and reduce swelling in the legs and feet
• Improve core and pelvic stability, easing pressure on the lower back and hips
• Enhance mood and energy levels, helping you feel more like yourself
• Prepare your body for labor and postpartum recovery
When tailored appropriately, prenatal exercise isn’t just safe — it’s one of the most effective tools for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Managing Low Back, Hip, and Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
As your center of gravity shifts and ligaments loosen, it’s normal to feel new aches and pains. Many women experience low back pain, hip pain, or pelvic pain as early as the second trimester.
A physical therapist can help identify the underlying cause of your pain — whether it’s joint instability, muscular tension, or postural imbalance — and design exercises that restore strength and alignment for lasting pain relief.
At our clinic, we focus on functional movements and gentle corrective exercises that promote pelvic health and overall body balance without putting stress on your growing belly.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Prenatal and Postpartum Health
The pelvic floor plays a vital role in pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery. A strong, flexible pelvic floor supports your baby, helps control bladder function, and assists during childbirth.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can help you:
• Improve pelvic floor strength and coordination
• Reduce urinary leakage during pregnancy or after delivery
• Decrease pelvic pain and pressure
• Prepare your body for smoother labor and postpartum recovery
Even if you’re already exercising, incorporating pelvic floor physical therapy ensures your movements are truly beneficial and safe for your changing body.
Postpartum Physical Therapy: Recovering Strong
After delivery, many women experience continued low back pain, hip pain, or weakness through the core and pelvic floor. Postpartum physical therapy can help restore strength, stability, and confidence in your body.
Our physical therapy team in Minneapolis focuses on rebuilding the foundation — from breathing patterns and deep core control to progressive strength training — to help new moms return to fitness safely and effectively.
Move Confidently with Physical Therapy in Minneapolis
At Onward Physical Therapy (Formerly Loon State Physical Therapy), we believe that movement is medicine — especially during pregnancy. Whether you’re looking for pain relief, better pelvic health, or expert guidance through exercise, our team is here to support you from bump to baby and beyond.
Book an appointment today to start your journey toward a stronger, healthier pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
