Archive for the ‘Prenatal Fitness’ Category

As I mentioned previously our bodies go through several changes during pregnancy. As a result, we must take special precautions while exercising. Here are some general guidelines to help keep you safe during exercise:

1. Do not stretch to maximal resistance to avoid excessive stretching of the ligaments.
2. Warm up slower and longer before exercising.
3. Avoid exercises needing balance, forceful movements and extreme jarring. This includes but is not limited to dancing, horse back riding, contact sports, etc.
4. Monitor your heart rate or perceived exertion closely. If you begin to feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nausious stop exercising.
5. Avoid lying flat on your back. If you must lay on your back for a specific exercise use an elevated step (your head should be higher than your hips).
6. Wear light breathable fabric to prevent overheating.
7. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Do not continue exercising and consult your physician if you experience any of the following:

Pain

Difficulty Walking

Bleeding

Pubic Pain

Back Pain

Shortness of breath

Faintness

Palpitations

Dizziness

Reference: Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (2002). Fitness Theory & Practice, p.323-331.

Recently I received a question regarding prenatal workouts. I thought others might have the same questions so as of today we will begin a series on prenatal fitness. During this series I hope to focus on safety, physiological changes, water aerobics, and demonstrations. Our bodies go through so many changes during pregnancy. It really is amazing; God has made our organs to move and blood to increase and tissue to soften. It’s also because of all of these changes that you will see my encouragement again and again to consult a physician before attempting these exercises.

Now to the question (or comment I should say):

“I’m interested in prenatal fitness products for use by my daughter… (5 months along).”

Most doctors (and pregnancy resources) say that a pregnant lady is free to continue exercising if she has already been exercising. If your daughter has not been running, now is not the time to take it up. Moderate exercise (walking, very light weights) should be fine for someone who has not been working out. My suggestion would be to speak with her doctor who will have the best advice for her.

As far as products, I have received questions about fitness videos. Thank you so much for your interest. There should be one available early 2008. We will keep you informed as more information becomes available. In the mean time, if you would be so kind to pray for the project that would be greatly appreciated.

More prenatal fitness information coming soon!