Overweight or obese mums are more likely to have larger babies which could be at higher risk of health problems later in life. Light exercise during pregnancy may improve the future health of a child by controlling weight in the womb.
There is increasing evidence that the future metabolism of a child may be influenced by its environment in the womb, and that babies who are relatively heavy for their length may be more likely to be obese in future years. A study of 84 first-time mothers found exercise was associated with slightly lighter babies. Given that large birth size is associated with increased risk of obesity, a modest reduction in birth weight may have long-term health benefits for offspring by lowering this risk later in life.