twin pregnancy exercise modifications

[jwbean]

I am 13 weeks pregnant and was told last week by the perinatologist that I should stop doing the step-aerobics and kickboxing I've been doing 5 days a week. When I asked him about weight training he was unclear. I was hoping I could substitute the 5 days with rotating the PS series but then a friend told me to avoid lunges and squats and that even upper exercises with light weights could put stress on the belly. I could use some advice as to safe exercises for me, understanding that everyone is unique, but is there a general rule for what should be avoided, like lunges or squats... Thank you

 

[ebh87]

twin pregnancy

Hi,
Once again, I can't be of any help in terms of exercising during pregnancy, but I just wanted to remind you that a twin pregnancy stretches out your uterus much quicker than a regular pregnancy. When I was pregnant, my doctor told me that, at 28 weeks, the uterus in a twin pregnancy is the same size as a full-term single pregnancy. Hope you are feeling well!
Erica

 

[Sheila]

Safe exercise during twin pregnancy

Congratulations on the twins. What fun!

As for your question..... Your physician recommended that you stop your step and kickboxing. I wonder how he would respond if you asked if you could attend a specialty prenatal class, providing that there is one available in your area.

I have had many women pregnant with twins in our prenatal fitness classes. Physician advice on exercise with twins varies with the physician and since I do not know your medical or obstetrical history I will have to advise you to go along with what your doctor has told you.

As for weight training.... I do not agree with your friend that upper body work with light weights will put added stress on your belly. You will need upper body strength when it comes time to lift those two babies, two carseats, a diaper bag for two babies and that double stroller! As for squats, they could be modified to plie squats. I would recommend to eliminate the lunges and just do the plie squats. Above all, listen to your body and adjust your workout accordingly. If it is the least bit uncomfortable, do not do it!

Again, your physician's recommendations were for a reason and I do not know if he had a specific reason in your case or that he just does not allow his "twin moms" to exercise. That is why above all, I will have to defer to the physician's recommendation.

Keep in touch. I would be interested in hearing what he says in the future.


Sheila