FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Physical activity

Information about physical activity

Introduction

Regular, moderate-intensity physical activity can support fertility by regulating menstrual cycles and enhancing overall health, including glucose control, blood pressure and mental wellbeing.

Evidence shows that engaging in physical activity for 6 months prior to pregnancy is associated with a lower risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. There is no evidence of harmful effects of exercise during the preconception period, or during pregnancy.

For adults, it is recommended to aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, or approximately 30 minutes per day on most days. Encourage 2 days a week of strength-based activities.

Breaking activity into shorter segments throughout the day can make it more achievable for many individuals.

When encouraging people to be more active, emphasising the benefits of physical activity can be a powerful motivator. Key benefits to highlight include:

  • Improving mood, focus and sleep
  • Enhanced mental health and wellbeing
  • Increased energy levels
  • Reduced stress levels
  • Better physical health, including lower of chronic diseases and some of cancers

Ask about activities they enjoy, as the goal may be to increase frequency or duration. Consider the financial impact of suggesting any activities that can be expensive, such as joining particular classes or fitness studios/gyms.

Short on time? Use this 1-minute conversation guide to support impactful and effective conversations that inspire movement.

Encouraging physical activity before conception

Resources

Further resources

  • Access these resources to support conversations
     
    • How to stay motivated with physical activity video
    • Starting or returning to physical activity video
    • Use this activity planner to support your consumers to make achievable movement goals for preconception health
    • Share Health and Wellbeing Queensland’s consumer-focussed exercises and workouts videos. These are activities that can be completed at home or in a small space.
    • 10,000 Steps – This supports people to increase their awareness and participation in physical activity by tracking steps, setting goals and finding ways to be active as part of their everyday lives. Delivered by web and mobile app, with email and phone support.
    • Parkrun – This can be a walk or a run for 5km along local places, in a positive, welcoming and inclusive environment with no time limits and no one finishing last. There are over 500 parkrun’s across Australia.
  • Resources for health professionals to extend learning
     

Women’s Checklist

Essential preconception health steps for women planning pregnancy

Men’s Checklist

Essential preconception health steps for men supporting conception

Before the Baby Bump is an initiative of the Queensland Government, delivered by Health and Wellbeing Queensland, and funded through Queensland Health’s Supporting Healthier Pregnancies Initiative.

Health and Wellbeing Queensland acknowledges the Traditional Owners and custodians of the lands from across Queensland. We pay our respects to the Elders past and present for they are holders of the memories, traditions, the culture and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Queensland.

© Health and Wellbeing Queensland 2026