weights

[star_dust]

Hi all! I am new to this forum, but have been exercising to Cathe's videos for a year. I am also pregnant with my first baby and am at 13 weeks. I gave up exercising for about 4-5 weeks because I felt so awful - just the usual complaints. I have returned to about 70% of my normal routine during the past week with the exception of doing any strength exercises for my upper body. At the moment, I am sticking with step and hi-lo cardios (and prenatal yoga twice a week). I would like to go back to doing weights 1-2 times a week to keep up my strength - but I am not sure how to modify them? Are there any of Cathe's videos or sections that you would recommend? Or is there another instructor? Or a book I could read? I am just not sure and worry that I would strain myself.

Thanks so much!

 

[Lean Lori]

I just listened to my body regarding weight training. I still did the same videos I had been (Pyramids, Pure Strength, Muscle Max, Gym Styles) that I did before I was pregnant. I took some time off from exercising the first trimester because of morning sickness, so when I returned to lifting I did have to go a little lighter. And when I hit about 33-34 weeks I had to go lighter again because it seemed like too much. Just listen to your body and you'll be fine. Good luck!

Lori

 

[shopaholic]

The best advice has been given, listen to your body. Modify all suppine (laying flat on your back) work after the 14th week. I did chest work on an incline using my step. I lightened my weights slightly at the end and stopped doing deadlifts since they hurt my back. I used my cathe videos and firms for strength up til the day I gave birth with few modifications.

 

[CurlyQtee]

Hey shoppy,
you're tinier than me, how did you do it all up to the day with step. I'm so low, and the step aerobics is starting to become a challenge, although I haven't given up yet. I'm starting to think I'll have to just do the elliptical. But I love the Cathe workouts, they are way more fun. Didn't you carry super low due to your height?
With Hannah I worked out up to the day but it was the elliptical and walking. I'd really like to keep up with step as far as I can. Did you ever have to lower it from 6 inches?