Physical activity is an essential element of a healthy lifestyle and a component of optimal health. Women who exercise during pregnancy may experience a reduced risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as gestational diabetes and even a shorter duration of active labor. Furthermore, physical activity is beneficial throughout all pregnancy trimesters and may help reduce potential risks to fetal growth.

To analyze the level of physical activity among women in different pregnancy trimesters.

This is a cross-sectional study Brazilian pregnant women aged =18 years who were undergoing prenatal care were included. Data collection was conducted using an electronic form containing questions about sociodemographic and clinical data, along with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), which gathers information on physical activity related to work, transportation, and recreation. The instrument presents results in Metabolic Equivalents (METs) and categorizes physical activity levels as follows: weekly expenditure = 1500 METs as vigorous, 600 METs = METs < 1500 METs as moderate, and METs < 600 as low. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize participants, and the chi-square test was performed to verify the association between the gestational trimester and activity level, with a p-value < 0.05 considered significant.

A total of 107 women participated in the study, with 28.0% (30) in the first trimester (mean age 32.7 ± 4.2 years), 35.5% (38) in the second (mean age 32.0 ± 5.3 years), and 36.5% (39) in the third trimester (mean age 30.3 ± 5.3 years). Monthly family income was classified as follows: Class A (above US$3.826.82): 13.3% (4) in the first trimester, 10.5% (4) in the second, and 7.7% (3) in the third; Class B (US$1.235.02–3.826.82): 56.7% (17), 44.7% (17), and 33.3% (13), respectively; Class C (US$504.44–1.235.02): 26.7% (8), 21% (8), and 46.1% (18); Class D/E (below US$504.44): 3.3% (1), 2.6% (1), and 12.8% (5). Regarding physical activity levels, 34.6% (37) of the pregnant women had a vigorous level of physical activity, 28% (30) moderate, and 37.4% (40) low. No significant association was found between gestational trimester and physical activity level (p = 0.24).

The level of physical activity among pregnant women was not related to the gestational trimester. However, it is noteworthy that most women had a low level of physical activity, which may impact their pregnancy health.

Studies with a larger number of participants are necessary to evaluate the relationship between physical activity levels and gestational trimesters. Since physical activity directly impacts maternal and fetal health, it is highly recommended by the World Health Organization.