by Alex Allred

QUESTION

Dear Fitness Expert,
I am about 4 weeks right now and I was wondering if I could start walking every day. I have been active in the past, lifting weights and running about 2-3 times a week. However, I hurt my back this summer and have been unable to do very much. I was just getting back in the groove when I found out I was pregnant.

It's hard to believe that this is the 12th month and your child, now a highly individual person, was a tiny, helpless infant only one year ago. Many developments have taken place, but many more are yet to come!

QUESTION

Dear Fitness Expert,
I am just 4 weeks pregnant. I currently walk/jog 10 km a week and also go to aqua-aerobics for 2 x 1 hour sessions per week. Can I continue with these safely throughout my pregnancy? When should I stop? Any other advice you can offer?

Many thanks in advance,
Sally

You've bought your kids toboggans, hockey sticks, and cross-country skis. You've signed them up for indoor soccer, swimming lessons, and gymnastics classes. You've told them all about the benefits of physical fitness. In fact, you've done everything possible to encourage your kids to put down the TV remote and get physically active. Or have you?

Swimming is the perfect non-weight-bearing exercise for pregnant women. It's the only time you will feel light on your feet. Also, the pressure of the water on the skin improves circulation and helps reduce swelling that normally occurs in pregnancy, especially in the latter months.

QUESTION

Dear Fitness Expert,
We are planning to conceive. Please tell me if it is safe to do brisk walking? What about dance as I'm fond of dancing? Can do some exercise to keep in shape? What other things we should keep in mind so that I may conceive well in time.

With regards,
Pooja