Somewhere in the past, I believe it’s possible that pregnant
women were told not to exert themselves. This included running, and
basically any sort of physical fitness that could raise the heart rate over 140
bpm - Strength training included. Well the times, they are a changin’, and more
and more information is being brought forward showing the pure benefits of
prenatal strength training.
So, I did some research on reasons to keep strength training
while pregnant. And I need to note first (as always) that I am in no way an
expert, so please consult with your Dr. before beginning or continuing any workout
plan!
Benefit #1: Strength training
can help reduce excessive weight gain. Not only does it help to keep your body
in shape, but it also keeps your mind strong (so you can turn down those extra
2 PM cravings). Plus, toning up will continue to turn your fat into muscle,
reducing extra jiggle.
Benefit #2: Reduces or avoids
common pregnancy and postpartum discomfort. Personally, I experienced some back
pain with my first pregnancy. It was like my back wasn’t strong enough to carry
the extra weight around my tummy. This is where strength training can be
helpful as it puts importance on proper posture and focuses on your core, which
helps to alleviate pressure on your back.
Benefit #3: Strength training
can help to ease labor pains. Your body may be more prepared if you’ve already
been keeping it in shape. If it can help reduce pain in any way, I’m all for
it!
Benefit #4: Helps build
adequate strength for carrying your baby and heavy baby equipment later on. We
all know that those baby carriers are HEAVY. My arm muscles never looked as
good as when I had to carry my newborn daughter EVERYWHERE in that 30 pound
thing. Why not prepare yourself ahead of time?
Benefit #5: Happy endorphins!
This is my favorite. And these can come from any sort of exercise completed
during pregnancy - a walk outside, a short elliptical workout - Anything to
break a small sweat and feel rejuvenated! Pregnancy (and especially postpartum)
hormones can wreak havoc on one’s mind. Just a little exercise can help to ease
these mood swings. *As a side note, I’m not sure my husband sees these as “mood
swings.” I think some days he’s just convinced I’m a crazy pregnant lady. Most
days, I truly wonder if he’s right… :)
In conclusion, after doing all of this research, I’m convinced
now more than ever that continuing to do some strength training for the next 4
months is a must. Per my Dr.’s orders, I am omitting anything that would
include jarring (So sorry burpees… Umm, not!), or anything that would
completely overexert myself. So my next plan is to start doing some solid
research on the best strength training exercises for pregnancy so I can mix it
up. I’ll be sure to post anything I find along the way!
Oh, and total final thought: In researching for this
article, I came across a lot of awkward photos of preggo women lifting weights.
Let’s remember to keep our attire appropriate for the gym, ladies. ;)
What about you? Do you have any strength training exercises
you like to do? I’d love to hear them so please feel free to share in the
comments!
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