  Historically, females were excluded from clinical research due to their
reproductive roles, hindering medical understanding and healthcare quality.
Despite guidelines promoting equal participation, females are underrepresented
in exercise science, perpetuating misconceptions about female physiology. Even
less attention has been given to exercise in the pregnant population. Research
on pregnancy and exercise has evolved considerably from the initial bedrest
prescriptions but concerns about exercise risks during pregnancy persisted for
many decades. Recent guidelines endorse moderate-intensity physical activity
during pregnancy, supported by considerable evidence of its safety and
benefits. Mental health during pregnancy, often overlooked, is gaining
traction, with exercise showing promise in reducing depression and anxiety.
While pregnancy guidelines recommend moderate-intensity physical activity,
there remains limited understanding of optimal frequency, intensity, type and
time (duration) for extremes like elite athletes or those with complications.
Female participation in elite sport and physically demanding jobs is rising,
but research on their specific needs is lacking. Traditional practices like bed
rest for high-risk pregnancies are being questioned, as evidence suggests it
may not improve outcomes. Historical neglect of gestational parents in research
perpetuated stereotypes of female frailty, but recent years have seen a shift
towards recognizing the benefits of an active pregnancy. Closing knowledge gaps
and inclusivity in research are crucial for ensuring guidelines reflect the
diverse needs of gestational parents. Therefore, the purpose of this review is
to summarize the evolution of exercise physiology and pregnancy research along
with future directions for this novel field.
