Exercise During Pregnancy
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- Q What is a safe way to strengthen my core muscles while pregnant?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessYes, but it is very important not to over extend your abs muscles while exercising. Seesaw Abs will help, but start gradual and remember this is not the time to get a six-pack and try out being on Baywatch Series 2. While sitting on the ground and your... Full Answer
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- Q What can I do at home to warm up and strengthen my heart?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessI call it "Rocky Mom" and it will warm up your shoulders and arms. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, knees barely bent, and hands at the sides of your waist with your palms up. Start with your left arm and punch straight out in front of your... Full Answer
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- Q Are there any exercises I can do to help with my delivery?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessDelivery Circles. Comfortably lie on 3 firm pillows, one under your lower back and two stacked above so that your entire back and head is at an upward angle. Place your hands behind your knees, pull your knees up toward your chest, open them to the... Full Answer
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- Q What exercises can help prepare me for a side-lying delivery?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessFollowing are the exercises that can help you prepare for side-lying delivery: Lie on your left side with your head resting on your left arm. Bend both legs about 90 degrees at the hip and knee, so that your knees are straight out in front of your hips.... Full Answer
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- Q How can I strengthen my back to support the added baby weight?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessThe Crib Time exercise will strengthen your back and arms. Stand in a partial lunge with the left foot in front. Lean forward slightly at the hips. Rotate your torso barely to the left, so that your right shoulder is a little in front of the left and let... Full Answer
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- Q How hard should I work out while pregnant?
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James Conroy - NASM Elite Trainer, FitnessIf you were not an exerciser prior to becoming pregnant, then it is best to start smart and start small. Small workouts of consisting of walking and very light resistance training for just 5 minutes a day will yield positive health benefits. As you... Full Answer
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- Q Is it safe to do weight training during pregnancy?
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Mrs. Michelle Carlson, FitnessAlways consult with your doctor prior to any physical activity regardless of your previous exercises. Your physician will be equipped to offer you advice for the road ahead. That said, strength training is beneficial for both mom and baby during... Full Answer
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- Q Should I consult a doctor before working out if I'm pregnant?
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It would be necessary to go see your doctor before you begin exercising, particularly if you haven't been exercising before you became pregnant.The American College of Sports Medicine supports guidelines established by the American College of... Full Answer
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- Q I feel tight in the morning. What stretch will loosen me up?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessThe Hammock Stretch opens the hips and hamstrings. Sitting on the floor with your hands behind you-palms down, fingers pointing backward, and elbows slightly bent, bring your feet up roughly two feet from your tailbone. Keeping the soles flat on the... Full Answer
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- Q How can I loosen my lower back and hips after a flight?
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Joel Harper - Elite Trainer, FitnessThis is a great stretch for all of us to do: the Seated Curtsy (stretches muscles of the hip). Sit in a sturdy chair and lift your left leg up, placing your left ankle on top of your right knee. Maintaining a straight spine, rest your left hand on your... Full Answer
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