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Postpartum Exercise Intervention

Influence of a Supervised Postpartum Exercise Program on Maternal Physical Activity Levels and Musculoskeletal Health

Who can join

Ages 18 and older · Women

Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years of age or older
* gave birth in the 24 months prior to study enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

* less than 6 weeks postpartum or not medically appropriate to engage in exercise regardless of time since childbirth (will be screened using the Get Active Questionnaire for Postpartum)
* prescription anti-inflammatory/pain medications that are taken daily;
* significant orthopedic conditions that would contraindicate performance of the fatigue task and participation in the exercise intervention (such as fractures, severe scoliosis, etc)
* moderate to severe cardiovascular \&/or pulmonary disease that contraindicates participation in exercise
* neuromuscular health conditions (such as diabetes, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, seizures, etc);
* smoking/vaping or use of other tobacco or nicotine products (chewing tobacco, nicotine patches, nicotine gum, etc.)
* use of any illegal drugs

About the study

The postpartum period is associated with decreases in physical activity levels, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and pelvic floor muscle function, but little scientific evidence exists on how best to initiate and progress exercise in the postpartum period. This proposal aims to improve habitual physical activity levels, neuromuscular health (i.e., strength, fatigability, symptom burden) and overall wellbeing (i.e., decreased fear of movement, improved sleep quality, improved perception of quality of life) through participation in a weekly exercise program. This study will help to inform postpartum exercise recommendations and is novel as it allows participants to incorporate their children into the exercise routine, thus removing a primary barrier to physical activity/exercise.

What is being tested

• Progressive exercise (other)
• Active Straight Leg Raise Test (diagnostic test)
• Active Straight Leg Raise Fatigue Task (other)
• Lower Extremity Strength Testing (other)
• Ultrasound imaging of abdominal wall (diagnostic test)
• Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength Testing (other)

Sponsor: Carroll University · Participants: 50 · Started: Feb 19, 2026

Contact the study team

• Rita Deering, DPT, PhD · Phone: 2629513047

Official record on ClinicalTrials.gov — NCT07613333

Locations in the U.S.

From ClinicalTrials.gov, data retrieved Sep 30, 2026. Each study sets its own eligibility; the study team decides who can join.