For a lot of pregnant women, the thought of having to actually go to a gym is a HUGE obstacle in exercising. And you may be wondering what exercise machines are safe during pregnancy?
Although exercise IS good for you during pregnancy, there are certain exercises that you should NOT be doing now that you're pregnant.
Treadmills
My top Aerobic Exercise for Pregnant Women is Walking.
Walking is one of the best, most convenient, and cost-effective exercises you can do (pregnant on not)!
Make sure to wear loose/light clothing (to deflect the sun) and well-supported/cushioned shoes (preferably running shoes). If you can, walk in trails or on the track so you have softer grounding. If you choose trails, make sure you wear cross trainers, so you get more lateral support to protect you from twisting your ankles with the uneven terrain. If the weight of your belly bothers you, you can always wear a pregnancy belt.
Remember to drink water throughout your route and if possible walk where you have access to a toilet (if you're anything like me, you'll need this!).
Treadmill walking is a good alternative if the weather is too extreme. If possible choose a machine that absorbs your body weight - making it easier on your joints.
As for other gym exercises there are somethings to keep in mind...
I, for example, had to give up playing squash, which I loved! Why? Because it involved doing too much start-stop, jerky movement!
I also had to give up my favorite body ball exercise, the hamstring curl. Why? Because my head was below my heart and it felt very uncomfortable and made me dizzy!
Does that mean you shouldn't exercise?
NO WAY! Exercise is KEY for an easy pregnancy and delivery.
One of my friends, who just delivered her baby girl (8 pounds, 9 ounces), told me she did it WITHOUT a rip, tear or stitch.
So how did she do it? Well, she's convinced that it's because she exercised right up until 5 days AFTER her "due date"!
Coincidentally - I ALSO exercised throughout my pregnancy and DID NOT get one rip, tear, or stitch either! Starting to sound convincing?
Exercise is GOOD - but be Cautious...You should NOT do certain types of exercise.
Here's a list of 4 Basic Exercises to Avoid:
1. Avoid deep knee bends (and be careful with squats!) - Because the body loosens up SO much during pregnancy, I wouldn't recommend any bending past 90-degrees while holding heavy weights!
My personal favorite is Ball Squats, but only do them if you feel OK (STOP if you feel any discomfort in your knees!).
2. Avoid lifting over your head (i.e. standard military press) - Because a lot of women hold their breath when they lift overhead (possibly causing them to feel dizzy and pass out), I'm always cautious of this exercise.
Also, because of the increased lordotic (lower back) curve associated with pregnancy, overhead exercises can place even more stress to the lower lumbar area, causing lower back strain. If you're committed to lifting overhead - an inclined position may feel better and take the pressure off your lower back.
3. Avoid any "Weight-Bearing" exercises that require you to bend from your waist and compress your abdominal muscles (i.e. deadlifts) - This can cause dizziness and puts pressure on your lumbar spine.
4. Avoid extreme stretching or bouncy movements - Your flexibility has increased greatly, which CAN and does lead to overstretching (painful!) if you're not careful.
Although I highly recommend Yoga - overstretching is something I'd watch out for! Listen to YOUR body, not what the teacher says or someone else in the class is doing.
But don't let RULES hold you back!
It's important to be cautious but DON'T let all these "RULES" keep you from exercising. Exercise WILL help you both during your pregnancy and beyond (including post-baby WEIGHT LOSS!).
Black Friday Proform Power 995 Treadmill 2011 Deals
Nov 27, 2011 19:55:39
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Black Friday Proform Power 995 Treadmill Feature
- Air based shock cushioning system reduces impact on joints and delivers comfortable running surface
- LED displays tracks your speed, time, distance, incline, pulse and calories burned
- Pro-tech adjustable cushion deck protect your joints more with full-length adjustable cushioning
- Includes limited lifetime manufacturer's warranty on frame and motor
- Limited 2 year manufacturer's warranty on parts, and limited 1 year manufacturer's warranty on labor
Black Friday Proform Power 995 Treadmill Overview
The ProForm Power 995 features a powerful design and delivers revolutionary technology for incredible results! Compatible with i Fit Live, this treadmill features workouts Powered by Google maps, training with Jillian Michaels and automatic speed and incline controls. This wireless technology delivers smarter workouts and faster results. The Power 995 is also compatible with Nike and iPod. Other features include a powerful 2.75 CHP mach Z commercial plus motor, comfortable ProShox Elite 2 Cushioning and an extra-long 20 x 60-Inch tread belt.Black Friday Proform Power 995 Treadmill Specifications
 A soft tread belt features ProTech Adjustable Cushion Deck to reduce wear and tear on your joints by up to 15 percent. |
Features:
- iFit Live: Features workouts powered by Google Maps, training with Jillian Michaels, automatic speed and incline controls, automatic workout downloads, and online profile management
- ProTech Adjustable Cushion Deck: Protect your joints up to 15 percent more with this full-length, adjustable cushioning
- SpaceSaver Design: Deck folds vertically for storage in compact spaces
- Dual-Grip EKG Heart Rate Monitor: Monitor your heart rate with built-in handlebar sensors
- Touch Screen Display: Navigate through workout stats and options with the swipe of a finger
- CoolAire Workout Fan: Fan is designed into the console and aimed at your core area for faster cooling
- Workout Programs: Ten performance workouts, six distance workouts, and six weight loss programs, all designed by a Certified Personal Trainer
- Workout Intensity Control: Allows you to quickly adjust the intensity of your workout at any time
- Compatible Music Port for iPod: Plug your iPod or MP3 player into the Interplay Music Port for unbeatable sound quality and easy access
- Intermix Acoustics 3.0: Enjoy rich, powerful performance with this built-in sound system, featuring three-inch high-excursion drivers for clarity and dynamic audio frequencies
Specifications:
- 2.75 CHP Mach Z Commercial Pro Motor: Motor is dynamically spin-balanced and extensively tested for superior performance in vibration and noise, making it one of the smoothest, quietest motors available
- ProForm Quality Testing: Tests include deck-pounding with 475 pounds of force over 1 million times, console testing, software checks, and 200 hours of human testing
- 0-12 Percent Quick Incline: Allows you to change incline with the touch of a button
- 20-by-60-inch (W x D) Two-ply Commercial Tread Belt: Designed to operate quieter than a normal tread belt for a balanced drive system
- 1-12 MPH QuickSpeed: Allows you to instantly change speed of the treadmill between 0-12 MPH with the touch of a button
- Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
- Dimensions: Measures 37.75 by 71.5 by 79.5 inches (W x H x D)
Warranty
The ProForm Trailrunner 2.0 includes a limited lifetime manufacturer's warranty on the frame and motor, limited two-year manufacturer's warranty on parts, and limited one-year manufacturer's warranty on labor.
About ProForm
ProForm is primarily known for innovating treadmill design with the renowned fold-away SpaceSaver. Today, the company continues to make advances in cushioning, electronics, durability, and reliability. In recent years, ProForm has introduced a complete line of exercise bikes, elliptical machines, weight benches, and more, all geared to provide the most effective workout available.
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