Physiologic and Training considerations for pregnancy.

Contraindications include:

exercise and pregnancy

  • Persistent bleeding 2nd and 3rd trimester
  • Medical documentation of incompetent cervix or intrauterine growth retardation.
  • Pregnancy induced hypertension
  • Preterm rupture of membrane
  • Preterm labor during current or prior pregnancy
  • Decreased oxygen available for aerobic exercise.

Posture can effect blood flow to uterus during vigorous exercise (avoid supine exercise after 1st trimester).

Even in the absence of exercise, pregnancy may increase metabolic demand by 300 Kcal pre day to maintain energy balance.

High risk pregnancy considerations include individuals older than 35, history of miscarriage, diabetes, thyroid disorder, anemia, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Postpartum exercise should be similar to pregnancy guidelines, as physiologic changes that occur during pregnancy may persist for up to 6 weeks.

Basic Exercise Guidelines for Pregnancy

pregnancy

Mode:low–impact or step aerobics that avoid jarring motions; treadmill walking, stationary cycling, and water activity.
Frequency: 3–5 days per week
Intensity: stage I and only stage II on physician's advice.
Duration:15–30 minutes per day
Assessment: push, pull, Overhead Squat, single leg balance or squat.
Flexibility: static, active stretching, and SMR
Resistance training: 2–3 days per week using light loads at 12–15 reps. Phase I and II of OPT model (after 1st trimester phase I only).
Special Considerations

Avoid prone exercises or supine after 12 weeks of pregnancy. Avoid SMR on varicose veins and areas of swelling. Plyometric training is not advised in 2nd and 3rd trimesters.

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