While thereĀ is so much we can’t control in labor and delivery, we can control how we prepare our minds and bodies. With that said, this specific preparation looks so different for each one of us. Ā For some of us, it means attending classes, for others, itās reading books, having conversations or asking questions. Despite the variable means of preparation, thereās tremendous comfort from knowing deep down that you have done whatever you consider to be yourĀ necessary work. At Bodies for …
Fitness Gains in Pregnancy
Yes, it is possible to gain fitness while pregnant!Ā Ā I see it all the time and it’s amazing!Ā Ā During an initial one-on-one, its quite common for me to hear stories of less than optimal fitness routines.Ā Ā Many of us are working too much and finding less time is available to devote to health and wellness.Ā Ā Common stories are of long weekdays spent at desks and efforts to get in some form of exercise on the weekends.Ā Once there’s a little one or two …
A Research Review – Exercise in Pregnancy: An Association with Placental Weight?
Exercise during pregnancy is a hot topic these days. As a childbirth professional passionate about helping individuals stay active throughout the perinatal period, I have been excitedly witnessing the pendulum swing that is in progressāa swing from fear of exercise to empowerment through movement. Ā Many pregnant people, who enjoyed a very physically active life before pregnancy, understandably want to continue that level of activity during their pregnancy as well. Ā They would like to know what the evidence says about safely …
Physical Therapy in the Perinatal Time: Guest Contributor, Aimee Lake, DPT
Physical therapy can be very helpful for maintaining a healthy level of physical activity during pregnancy. It can be helpful for managing and solving some of the physical challenges of pregnancy. It can also be a great resource for preparing for birth and post partum recovery. People often think of physical therapy in terms of getting rid of pain or the rehab thatās needed after a surgery. But as a Womenās Health physical therapist, I like to think of my …
Swimming During Pregnancy
If you’re looking for a complimentary form of exercise for your prenatal program, swimming can provide a welcome relief to those aches and pains you often experience during pregnancy! So, what are some of the benefits of swimming? It relieves the pressure of your bump by providing support and taking the strain off your back. Itās great for improving circulation which is sometimes affected during pregnancy due toĀ all the hormones running around your system. Stimulates blood flow and reduces any …
Push-Up for Upper Body Strength in Pregnancy
Upper body strength is often overlooked–especially for women and it seems to drop off Ā our radar entirely during pregnancy as we begin to think more about core, pelvic floor and lower body strength. The thing is, upper body strength is vital to maintaining alignment, overall strength and stability as well as to prepare for the work of delivery and postpartum care! You see, once baby arrives, you will be carrying the most adorable weight you can imagine! Ā Instead of being …
Squats: Prenatal & Postpartum Strength Training
Squat, Squat, Squat! If you work with me there are a few guarantees and squatting is one of them; so letās get started! Ā Squats are one of my absolute favorite exercises to strengthen the lower body, the pelvic floor and the core. Ā You might be surprised to hear that the core is trained as well, but core stability and strength are essential to performing a proper squat. When you utilize your diaphragmatic exhale breath this effectively aids in accessing your …