Which of the following is a physiological change that occurs in pregnant women that can affect how they exercise?

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes a variety of physiological changes to support the developing fetus. One notable change is the increase in resting heart rate. This occurs as a result of hormonal fluctuations and an increase in blood volume, which necessitates the heart to pump more blood to effectively supply oxygen and nutrients to both the mother and the fetus.

An increased resting heart rate can affect exercise in several ways. For example, it may lead a pregnant woman to feel that her heart is working harder than it did pre-pregnancy, which can influence her perception of exertion during physical activities. Additionally, this change necessitates adjustments in exercise intensity and duration, as the cardiovascular system is adapting to support increased metabolic demands.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe typical physiological changes during pregnancy or less consistently reflect changes relevant to exercise. Increased blood pressure can occur but is not a guaranteed physiological change for every woman. Decreased lung capacity usually isn’t a primary concern; instead, lung capacity can sometimes increase as the diaphragm adapts during pregnancy. Enhanced muscle mass may not typically be associated with pregnancy; hormonal changes can lead to changes in body composition, but they are more complex than simply increased muscle mass. Understanding these physiological adaptations helps personal trainers design safe