Physical fitness has many positive effects on individuals’ physical health and well-being (). Exercise has been shown in previously conducted research to help ease muscle tension, alleviate back pain, and help regulate blood pressure (Jones, Dean and Lo, 2002). Exercise activity releases endorphins in the brain, which can improve mental focus, reduce anxiety and boost self-esteem (McArthur and Raedeke, 2009). People worldwide turn to physical fitness in search of improving their physical and mental well-being.
Pregnancy is extremely stressful period for women worldwide. During this time, women are prone to experience a great deal of stress, apprehension and anxiety (Jorgensen, Dusek, Richards and McIntyre, 2009). A variety of studies have been conducted over the years to examine the benefits of physical exercise on the physical and metal well-being of pregnant women. (Ritvanen, Louhevaara, Helin, Halonen and Hanninen, 2007).
Exercise and academic performance
Cardiovascular fitness has been shown to have a positive effect on brain function and cognition of individuals (Hillman, Erickson and Kramer, 2008). In their study Hillman et al, (2008) observed that physical activity is responsible for the activation of frontoparital network in the brain. This part of the brain is responsible for working memory, multi-tasking, planning, and reading. As the result of their study Hillman et al. (2008) found positive correlation between reading achievements of individuals and aerobic capacity. Moreover, Hillman et al. (2008) discovered a positive correlation between mathematic achievements and aerobic capacity. The researchers reported that increasing physical activity would improve focus and attention of an individual and improve academic performance. A study carried out by (Jones, Dean and Lo, 2002), revealed that incorporating exercise activities in the daily