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Nine Months of Strength
Your Guide to a Healthy Baby
By Teri Brown
The physical benefits are not the only reason to train for delivery. "Mentally and emotionally it helps give you a feeling of control in a situation where you don't have a lot of control," says Bridson. "That sense of strength gives you an edge during the physical demands of birth."
Dr. JoAnn Dahlkoetter, author of Your Performing Edge (Pulgas Ridge Press, 2004), believes the emotional aspects of prenatal fitness are almost as important as the physical ones. "Exercising definitely helps with the emotional aspects of pregnancy, delivery and postpartum, producing endorphins in the brain which support stress reduction," she says.
Dr. Dahlkoetter includes several chapters in her book on training for delivery about relaxation, breathing and exercise for a healthy, balanced lifestyle and is big believer in breathing. "Deep Breathing exercises are the best preparation for delivery," she says.
The most critical thing a pregnant woman must do before starting or continuing any fitness regimen is to check with her health care provider to ensure there are no reasons why she shouldn't continue to be active. Remember to report any concerns or new developments to make sure it is still safe to exercise. It also is a good idea to wait until the second trimester to begin an exercise program if you hadn't been previously active.
Training for delivery is a commonsense approach to childbirth and one that should empower women during a very challenging time in their lives. Imagine going through the birthing process strong, healthy, alert and full of energy for the task. Your baby can only benefit from such an entrance into the world!
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