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Expert Q&A
Question:
My husband and I have found out that we are pregnant. I am currently a little over seven weeks. I have been training/working out for at least 15 years. My program includes cardio work as well as weight training. My weight training is done on Nautilus machines and not using free weights. I have heard that because weight training is not an aerobic exercise, I shouldn't do it. Do you have any information on how weight training could affect our baby? Am I able to continue weight training at a lower weight/higher reps?
Answer:

As long as you have your doctors' approval, there is nothing wrong with continuing your weight training routine throughout your pregnancy. It's actually encouraged. However, your workout goals change. Now your goal is to maintain fitness rather than improve fitness. Which means you continue your regular program, but it's safer not to work at routinely increasing the weight that you lift. Your body is already working very hard to support the growth ofanother human being within your womb. Allow your body to do that,yet "maintain" your current strength levels so that you have aneasier labor, and a faster recovery. Also, some of the latest studies have shown that babies of mothers who workout regularly withstand the trauma of labor better.

Some simple guidelines: Stay well hydrated, eat up to an extra 300 calories per day to compensate for the calories you burn off during exercise (pregnancy is not a time to go into calorie deficit), don't get overheated, avoid holding your breath during any exercise, and aboveall, listen to your body. What feels great today may feel awkwardand uncomfortable, or even hurt tomorrow. Make the proper adjustment that your body and your growing baby need.

It's fine that you workout with lower rates and higher reps, but you may compromise your current muscle mass. Just maintain the weights you now lift, assuming that you're not training for the next Ms. Olympia, and gradually increase your repetitions from there. Just stay comfortable, happy and strong.

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