It’s natural for newly pregnant women to be concerned about the health and wellness of their developing babies. However, some nervous new moms believe myths over facts and subsequently miss out on many benefits of physical activity. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that pregnant women get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. Here are some popular myths about exercise and pregnancy that need to be debunked:

Myth: Exercise increases miscarriage rates.

While about 10%-20% of early pregnancies end in miscarriage, studies show no correlation between low to moderate intensity exercise and miscarriage. On the contrary, physical fitness is a protective factor.

Myth: During pregnancy a woman’s heart rate should never get above 130-140 beats per minute.

There is no one target heart rate that’s ideal for every pregnant woman.

Myth: Exercise leads to dangerous overheating and dehydration.

It is true that overheating is dangerous for a baby’s development, especially in the first trimester. However, pregnant women simply need to star hydrated and take a few basic precautions.

Myth: Lifting weights is dangerous for both mother and fetus.

Research shows that stronger moms have shorter labors, less chance of preterm labor, few complications and shorter hospital stays.

Myth: Pregnant women shouldn’t start working out if they weren’t previously engaged in an exercise program.

A healthy woman may continue with her regular exercise regimen or begin a new program during pregnancy, with proper modifications. In fact, a recent study found that exercise during pregnancy may program a baby’s heart to resist cardiovascular problems later in life, because blood vessels will be stronger.