Structured Exercise among Pregnant Women during the Third Trimester

Introduction: Maternal mortality remains a significant concern in the Philippines, with a high maternal mortality ratio, emphasizing the need for effective interventions. This study investigated the level of awareness and extent of practice of structured exercises among pregnant women in Baguio City, Philippines. Methods: A descriptive correlational design was employed to investigate the level of awareness and extent of practice of structured exercises among 105 pregnant women in Baguio City. A convenience sampling was utilized to identify factors influencing exercise adoption and inform the development of culturally appropriate interventions aimed at improving maternal health outcomes. A validated questionnaire was used through “yes/no” responses and categorical scale with three response options, in determining the awareness and practice of various exercises. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and simple linear correlation. Results: Findings revealed an overall moderate level of awareness (Mean Percentage Score = 49.31%) and practice (Mean Percentage Score = 1.99%) of structured exercise. Significant positive correlations were found between awareness and practice for several exercises, particularly those involving ankle and toe exercises, reflecting a direct translation of awareness into action. Educational attainment and the history of previous pregnancies positively influenced both awareness and practice, suggesting that prior experience and higher educational levels are associated with greater understanding of exercise benefits and increased self-efficacy. Conversely, engagement in exercises, such as abdominal and pelvic exercises, remained low, indicating an important area for intervention. This discrepancy accentuates the potential influence of perceived barriers, such as fear of complications and lack of access to resources, which outweigh perceived benefits. Conclusion: Further research is needed to assess the applicability of these findings across various populations and settings, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of culturally tailored interventions aimed at overcoming the identified barriers. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to broader strategies for reducing maternal mortality in the Philippines by promoting safe and effective exercise during pregnancy.