Is it okay to workout while I am pregnant?

Having a child is an exciting time of your life whether it is your first child or your third. So, this is a scary question. Obviously, there is not a lot of research on this subject. Why? For obvious reasons, how many women do you know would put their unborn child at risk for a "research study"? However, that is why this is still a question with not a lot of answers. And let's face it, most doctors are not going to go out on a limb and tell you to go exercise, but so far I have found only positive results.

I have had a lot of my clients train throughout their pregnancy and they felt better, had easier labor and their children were very healthy. I have employed 3 aerobic instructors and a yoga instructor who taught throughout their pregnancy during the 80 & 90's when it was common to teach 2 - 3 hours per day. They all had healthy pregnancies and very healthy children. I would strongly recommend you read a book called "Exercising Through Your Pregnancy" by Dr. James F. Clapp, III. This book, along with your Doctor's recommendations, will help you decide if exercising is right for you. There are a lot of interesting facts in the book about the positive results of exercising during pregnancy.

I have studied and obtained certifications in this area of training with Sarah Kooperman, who runs a leading nationwide certification program called SCW and offers a certification called Moms In Motion. I strongly recommend that anyone who is interested in expanding their knowledge in this area consider this certification.

Only you and your Doctor can make the final decision to work out during your pregnancy, but just keep in mind that the fitter you are the easier it is to handle any stress. Feel free to contact me with any of your fitness questions and if you would like help getting more information on this subject. You can reach me at bodyarch@verizon.net or http://www.facebook.com/bodyarch