We have worked with mothers throughout and after their pregnancies. They stated that their deliveries went easier, and they report getting back in shape quicker than they did in previous pregnancies. As always, expectant mothers need to be cleared for exercise by their doctor. Our exercise program is similar to the program recommended in the book Power of Ten. A quote from the book:
Is the Power of 10 safe if you're pregnant? Again, check first with your doctor. However, it is commonly accepted today that sensible exercise can be beneficial to the health of both pregnant mothers and their babies. Labor and delivery are extremely strenuous physical activities that women should get in shape for like any athlete, with proper muscular and metabolic conditioning. The irony is that most women let themselves become severely de-conditioned during pregnancy, resulting in a greater chance of difficulties doing labor – and afterword, a much longer recovery period.
A client who worked out with us during and after her pregnancy:
'I started training with Amy in May 2007 - 5 months after my first child was born. I saw a remarkable change in my body, building muscle and losing fat while becoming lean. Currently I am 12 weeks out from having our second child. It is amazing how quickly my body has lost the pregnancy weight and is quickly becoming lean and muscular again. Much quicker than after my first child and I feel certain it is due to the weight training I was doing before and while pregnant at Kelly Personal Training. My body built up muscle and did not lose much therefore I was able to bounce back to my pre-pregnancy weight and figure much faster." ~ Marly
Another client said this:
I have quit every health club I have ever joined. I have stuck with this for three years now. I am in the best shape of my life even after having twins. ~ Kyle.
At Austin Personal Training and New Orleans Personal Training we use MedX strength and rehabilitative exercise equipment that can be finely adjusted to accommodate most pre- or post-pregnancy conditions. Most new mothers have little time for exercise. Our high intensity workout is a workout that need not be performed often; most do it just once a week. This leaves more time for other priorities like family without sacrificing one's health.
One of our clients is expecting her third child. She has worked out during all three pregnancies. We have been fortunate to work with mothers before they were pregnant, while pregnant, and years afterward. We have seen some kids grow from babies to teenagers. It has been a pleasure to watch them grow and be a small part in their lives.