Q: Hi Gina! I hope that you have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. My wife is 19 weeks. It was a surprise and the news came just as she made a commitment to becoming a fitness model. She has a long way to go (30% bodyfat) but tons of motivation. However, the pregnancy has somewhat deflated that drive because she believes her workouts have to be suspended until a few months postpartum. Is that true? I know that jumping is not permitted but what about strength training with squats and deadlifts? When should she lighten the load? How soon postpartum can she resume a rigorous workout routine? Is it reasonable to expect that she’ll lose the 30% bodyfat? Thanks for your time!!
A: Thank you for getting in touch and congratulations on your baby on board!!! There is no reason why she cannot continue with her fitness routine. Of course, things need to be tweaked and tailored to how she feels but this is a great time for her to continue with her health and therefore the health of the baby! If she has the motivation, which it sounds like she does, this is perfect time for her to continue on her journey! I suggest she doesn’t start anything that she wasn’t doing before pregnancy but there is no reason why she can’t walk, swim and lift light weights. I suggest just doing something everyday and staying moving and not idle!! Yes, I would refrain from High intensity training, jumping or any kind of work on her back but other things, light weights, body weight squats, walking, swimming, etc are all great for her and the baby!! I am doing a lot of body weight training and cardio and less weights, especially heavy weights. Yoga is also a great thing for there to try. They have great prenatal yoga classes!! After her pregnancy, it depends on how she delivers and how she feels, as to how quickly she gets back into things full on. Everyone is different and the biggest piece of advice I can give her is to listen to her body. She absolutely CAN lose weight post pregnancy!! In short, I suggest she continues being active, whatever level that is for her. Move daily and focus on health food choices!
Thanks again for the question and hope that helps!
Gina
