If the pregnant woman has varicose veins, stay away from exercises that cut off circulation or put excessive strain on the veins e.g. avoid standing poses held for long periods of time.

Work carefully around the knee joints, using appropriate props to prevent pain, especially if there has been a previous injury.

NB: Do not take on pregnant women who are considered high risk e.g. threatening miscarriage, or with a chronic condition especially lower back and pelvis.

A pregnant woman should be encouraged to listen to her body at all times, and never to do anything that causes unnecessary or inappropriate discomfort.

Short-term ache in pregnant woman’s belly is normal. Severe cramping is not. Nor is bleeding from the vagina, fever, chills, light-headedness, faintness or excessive discharge from the vagina. Action must be taken and she must contact her doctor or caregiver.

If you are taking on a new private client, it is recommended that you get a letter of medical consent for her to exercise. PAR med-X for PREGNANCY is a convenient checklist for use by health care providers to evaluate pregnant patients who want to enter a prenatal fitness programme.