Obesity is a common implication during pregnancy and childbirth. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the effect of physical exercise on pregnancy outcomes, the change of physical activity during pregnancy, with a particular focus on women who are obese. Obese women and their infant are at increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, which may be improved by regular physical exercise. Obese women are usually less physically active and tend to further reduce activity levels during pregnancy. This review highlights the potential short- and long-term benefits of exercise in obese pregnant women and their child. Current guidelines recommended that all obese pregnant women without medical complications should engage in low to moderate-intensity exercise on a daily basis. Available literature revealed that there are very few studies supporting the evidence so there is need of more randomized controlled trials to strengthen its evidence.

Keywords: Obesity; Maternal Health; Physical Activity; Pregnancy.