Fitness tips for every level to help stave off extra pounds or problems during pregnancy (9 Photos)
Melissa F. Pheterson on Sep 15, 2010 at 12:44PM
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“Women our age may be working a stressful job, may have other children, may juggle all kinds of demands on their time,” says Kathy Kaehler, who designed prenatal workouts for Julia Roberts, Lisa Kudrow and Michelle Pfeiffer, all pregnant in their mid-30s. “Working out, even for a few minutes, will give you back the energy you need.” Don’t want to overdo it? “Listen to your body,” says Kaehler. “You should feel increased breathing, warmth and an elevated heart rate.” (Discuss your target heart rate with your doc.)
In the gym, Kaehler suggests hitting the treadmill (walking or running) or the recumbent exercise bike (while you can still fit between the seat and the handle). The elliptical machine is a great idea throughout pregnancy, for all levels. “It’s non-impact, gives a total-body workout and keeps you upright,” she says. Stay away from the rowing machine and the vibrating platform, she cautions -– there’s too much instability and jostling.
