Fitness Facts
March, 2010

Hey, That Weightlifter Is Pregnant!

It used to be pregnant women took nine months off from their fitness routine. Now we know exercise is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy but myths abound about what expectant moms can and cannot do. Our fitness expert explains in this month's report.

Erica is expecting her fourth child while Elizabeth Caterba is 17 weeks pregnant with number three. They know exercise is just as important as eating well.

Elizabeth says, "Endorphins always make you feel better after you come so that's the biggest motivation for me, just to feel better for the rest of the day."

To get that energy boost, certified fitness trainer Lori Johnson encourages most expectant women to work out at a moderate pace. Many moms-to-be can still lift weights and with some Pilates-style accommodations, do ab work. And that hard work pays dividends.

Lori Johnson says, "They're going to have a much easier delivery. Their bodies are going to be stronger. It's going to be easier for them to get back into shape."

Another important thing to keep in mind is to stay hydrated. Water is important for all exercisers but when you're pregnant you're at an even greater risk of becoming dehydrated. So, expectant women need to drink plenty of water, not just when they're exercising but all throughout the day.

Elizabeth and Erica push themselves but not too hard.

Erica says, "I think if you just listen to your body your body will tell you if you're doing too much and then you gotta cut it back but, also watching your heart rate is always good. My doctor says don't get above 150 for too long."

By tailoring exercise to their pregnancies, Erica and Elizabeth can enjoy the benefits now and after their babies are born.

Pregnant women should talk to their doctors about whether a heart monitor is a good investment. Some women expecting for the first time consider it peace of mind.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.
Posted by: Colleen on Jan 4, 2010 at 07:59 AM
I saw the "Fit After 50" when it was on the air. Does anyone know where this was at and if there's a specific fitness program available?

Posted by: Ann on Oct 22, 2008 at 09:37 AM
I am a member of Prairie Life and while i love the gym I do wish they would offer more kick boxing classes. When I was a member of the Y they had a class 4 to 6 times a week and it was wonderful for not only getting rid of post baby weight, but also to strengthen my lower back. I had back pain for years, starting with my first child, so after 4 kids it was really bad, but several months of kick boxing and I had no more pain. I would like to see the gym offer more of these classes.

Posted by: Nicole on Oct 10, 2008 at 10:13 AM
I have a one year old daughter who is experiencing severe separation anxiety with me. For this reason, I can do nothing else during her waking hours. I am still struggling to find time to workout. I wake up at 5:30am as it is and by the time my daughter goes to bed at 8:30pm I am too tired to function - let alone workout. I work full time and find it impossible to find the time to workout, but I really want to get healthy and be an example for my daughter.

Posted by: Theresa on Jul 31, 2008 at 10:19 PM
I have worked out and taken diet pills, I want to loose weight but then i get depress and I give up I need help don't know what to do anymore.

Posted by: melissa on Feb 20, 2008 at 08:50 AM
The best thing to get your body back after the fat is gone is lift weights. I have 3 kids under 3 and lifting weights does wonders for those problem areas.

Posted by: Kay on Jan 31, 2008 at 08:00 PM
Lori, I have a question. I have 4 children and the youngest is 14 mon. I am back at my pre-baby weight, but my body has completely shifted. I am a pretty small person, size 4, but I now have terrible saddlebags and a bottom I never had before. What do you recommend. I am fine with my weight, its the shape of my bady I cant stand!!! Thanks, Kay

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