The Importance of Pre & Post Natal Exercise
Here is some basic info on pre and post natal training. The basis of pre natal is maintenance of fitness levels, reduction of any pain caused by the extra load and to prepare the mother for labour. The basis of post natal is to re-establish posture, correct nutritional patterns and to shed the extra weight induced by pregnancy in order to return the mother to a pre pregnancy state.
We would likely offer a six week program pre and post pregnancy based on these principles.
Actively engaging in exercise during pregnancy can have a dramatic effect on reducing weight gain during pregnancy and after giving birth. Sleep patterns and mood can also be improved and exercise is often associated with more comfortable labour.
Postural work combined with appropriate stretching and strengthening programs can alleviate back pain due to the extra load supported during pregnancy and breathing exercises will prepare the mother for the trauma of pregnancy by strengthening the muscles required during labour.
The main considerations are the contraindications of pre natal exercise. It is crucially important that the pregnant mother understands that maintenance, not improvement of fitness levels is the focus of exercise during this tender stage. It is not the time to be losing weight! Therefore intensity of exercise, environment and type of exercise must be carefully considered in relation to the safety of the child’s development.
Nutrition must also be addressed when exercising during pregnancy because the mother is ‘eating for two’. Exercise uses extra calories so this means consuming more calories with consideration of how many are expended during exercise. Water is also vital, if you are exercising during pregnancy drink more water, approximately 8 – 12 mugs per day.
Following child birth it is essential to firstly return nutritional habits back to normal to ensure that excessive weight gain does not occur due to over eating. Exercise must begin with postural correction, pelvic floor and core muscle strengthening, and rehabilitation of back pain before more intense exercise begins. This provides the foundation for effective and productive training.
Drive PT specialises in providing tailored personal fitness packages for mothers both in the early stages of pregnancy and those wanting to return their body back to optimum condition post pregnancy. These ensure both mother and baby have an active and healthy start during these crucial early stages.
Do you want to regain and keep your pre pregnancy body?
Then contact Drive NOW to consult with one of our Pre/Post Natal Experts!