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SPS3111: Physical Activity and Health

  • Instructor: Dr. Favil Singh, PhD, ESSAM

  • Affiliation: Exercise Medicine Research Institute, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University

Prevalence of Physical Activity in Children

  • Focus Areas:

    • Prevalence rates of physical activity (PA) among children.

    • Barriers to children engaging in PA.

    • Benefits of PA for children's physical, academic, and mental health.

  • Concerns: Problems associated with fitness testing and appropriate training methods.

    • Importance of resistance training.

    • Strategies to promote PA among children.

Physical Activity and Pregnancy

General Information

  • Normal pregnancy duration is approximately 280 days (40 weeks) and is divided into:

    • 1st trimester: Weeks 1-12

    • 2nd trimester: Weeks 13-27

    • 3rd trimester: Weeks 28-40

Exercise During Pregnancy

  • Only 25% of women planning a pregnancy engage in regular exercise.

  • 42% of pregnant women exercise, but 58% do not.

  • Half of exercising women continue past 6 months.

Research Findings

  • Cross-Sectional Study Findings:

    • Lower prevalence of PA during pregnancy compared to pre-pregnancy.

    • 50% of women stop PA due to pregnancy complications.

    • Walking and water aerobics are commonly prescribed by healthcare providers.

Physiological Changes During Pregnancy

  • Cardiovascular Changes:

    • Increased heart rate (up to 15 additional beats per minute).

    • 50% increase in blood pumped per minute; significant changes to stroke volume and cardiac output noted.

  • Lung and Oxygen Changes:

    • Increased air intake efficiency and oxygen demands impact exercise levels.

  • Musculoskeletal and Hormonal Changes:

    • Hormonal fluctuations lead to joint laxity and potential musculoskeletal issues.

    • Separation of abdominal muscles known as Diastasis Recti.

Temperature Regulation and Metabolism

  • Moderate increase in metabolic rate with potential risk of hyperthermia.

  • Extra caloric requirements are essential (150-300 extra calories/day).

Gestational Diabetes

  • 3-8% of pregnant women may experience increased blood glucose levels, often treated with lifestyle changes or monitoring.

Maternal Health Impacts of Exercise

  • Positive Effects:

    • Reduced nausea and fatigue; improved body image.

    • Moderate exercise linked to lower risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

  • Labor Outcomes:

    • Women who exercise have enhanced delivery outcomes (85% deliver vaginally with fewer interventions).

Effects on the Foetus

  • Infants of exercising mothers tend to be healthier, lower fat percentage, and better stress toleration at birth.

  • Long-term health benefits noted in children of active mothers.

Current Recommendations

  • Exercise Regimen:

    • At least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise recommended.

    • Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing, is encouraged.

  • Cautions:

    • Avoid supine position after 1st trimester; ensure hydration and adequate caloric intake.

    • Avoid activities with high fall risk or excessive temperature elevation.

Return to Exercise Postpartum

  • Physiological changes can remain for 4-6 weeks postpartum; gradual return to activity advised.

  • Positive long-term consequences of exercise during pregnancy highlighted in maternal recovery and infant health.

Conclusion

  • More than 90% of women choose to continue exercise postpartum, successfully managing fitness and health improvements.

Final Exam Information

  • Duration: 2 hours

  • Covers Topics 7-12 with approximately 50 MCQ and 14 short answer questions. (Total: 35 marks)

Resources

  • Further information available at ECU, visit: http://www.ecu.edu.au

  • Thank you for your attention!