The range of weight gain in pregnancy varies quite a bit from woman to woman. A woman who was underweight before getting pregnant may gain relatively more weight than an overweight woman. While there is no exact magic number, the best estimate of average weight gain is around 25 to 28 pounds.

The majority of this weight is that of the fetus, uterus, breasts and increased blood volume, with approximately 25 percent of the total weight accounted for by increasing maternal fat and protein stores. On average, a woman gains half a pound a week in the first half of pregnancy and a pound a week thereafter. Once again, a wide range of weight gain with equally good results have been seen.

A woman with a healthy pregnancy may be allowed to exercise. There are some conditions that may make exercise harmful, so any woman exercising during pregnancy should consult her obstetrician before beginning an exercise program. Almost any exercise begun prior to pregnancy can be continued, including running, cycling and aerobics. Those looking to institute exercise during pregnancy may want to start with lower impact exercise. Basic common sense practices such as good fluid intake, avoiding over-exertion, and proper exercise technique are important. The pregnant woman should try to avoid lying flat on her back, which may compromise blood flow to the baby. As a woman's center of gravity shifts, she should use caution during those activities where a loss of balance would prove injurious.

The goal of exercise should never be to curb weight gain, but to increase the overall feeling of well-being. Women who exercise during pregnancy report feeling much better with the changes their bodies go through during pregnancy. There is some evidence to suggest that these mothers (and their babies) tolerate the stress of labor better. Exercise should not be done with the intent to increase a level of fitness or obtain a personal best, but the goal should be to maintain fitness and a sense of well-being.

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