Is "Walking Away the Pounds" Safe during Pregnancy?
QUESTION
Dear Fitness Expert,
I have started a "Walk Away the Pounds" exercise video that is a moderate walking exercise program that doesn't really include anything strenuous. You just walk a mile in 20 minutes. I haven't really done any exercise since college about 6 years ago. I have had two easy successful pregnancies since then and I am pregnant with my third. I am in my first trimester still and want to know if it is okay to do this video once or twice a week?
ANSWER
Absolutely...but this is contingent upon your physicians approval. If you have been working out to this video and feel strong, happy doing so, knock yourself out and keep on walking! Walking is really one of the best things you can do while you are pregnant. In fact, pregnant women can do much more than walk but it is all based on your personal workout routine.
If you were running ten miles a day, you can continue to do this until the last trimester. The key to any workout -- whether you are running, walking or hiking -- be sure you remain hydrated and check your inner core temperature. [See our information about inner core temperature]. This is a great time of year to be working out but you must still be sure you do not get too hot. Remember that your baby's temperature is one degree Celsius hotter than your own temperature. Invest in a rectal thermometer (I know, I know...icky!) and read about inner core temperature.
To keep your arms tone and fit -- remember that come delivery time you want to have good upper body strength as well. Pushing is key! You can add 1-2 pound hand weights to your walk.
Have fun, be safe and drink plenty of water!
-- Alex
Alexandra Allred
Alexandra Allred is a former member of the US Women's Bobsled team, is an accomplished martial artist, and continues to teach kickboxing while juggling her career as a full-time writer and mother of three. She has interviewed hundreds of athletes, models, actresses, trainers, doctors, and health/fitness experts as she sought to find answers to her own questions about working out while pregnant, arranging breast-feeding around a training schedule, diet when pregnant and breastfeeding, and encouraging her whole family.
Alex is the author of ten books, including Atta Girl! A Celebration of Women in Sports and Entering the Mother Zone: Balancing Self, Health & Family. We're excited to have her on board!
