Personal Training during Pregnancy

Working out during pregnancy is a topic that often sparks curiosity and concern among expectant mothers. To shed light on this, we spoke with Lucia Patrick, a dedicated member of the 4UrLife movement and our client highlight of the month for April. Lucia's experience offers valuable insights into why exercising during pregnancy can be beneficial.

Lucia's journey with 4UrLife Movement began after receiving some concerning health news from her doctor. "Aside from occasional yoga and biking, I really wasn’t big into going to the gym," she recalls. However, after being informed about elevated blood sugar levels, she decided it was time to take control of her health.

After frequently passing by our storefront near her home, Lucia decided to join 4UrLife Movement. She was already active before her pregnancy, training with coach Nick. While her sessions with coach Nick were initially high-impact and cardio-focused, they have since evolved into low-impact routines emphasizing mobility. Despite these adjustments, Lucia shares that the workouts remain challenging due to her body's weekly changes.

Throughout her pregnancy, Lucia has maintained a safe exercise regimen using resistance bands, TRX systems, dumbbells, and kettlebells. Her favorite exercises target the upper body because they allow her to push herself within safe limits while lifting weights. Conversely, exercises designed to strengthen areas like her back and SI joints are more challenging due to the additional pregnancy weight.

Lucia firmly believes that working out has significantly supported her pregnancy journey. Unlike during her first pregnancy when she lacked an exercise routine and faced prolonged postpartum recovery from aches and pains, this time she feels more empowered and stronger. She acknowledges that while some discomfort is inevitable during pregnancy, being in tune to her body through exercise has enabled better management of those aches via targeted workouts and improved understanding of body mechanics.

When asked why working out is beneficial during pregnancy, Lucia emphasizes that getting into a workout routine before becoming pregnant can make all the difference. "If there are exercises and physical activities you weren't doing before pregnancy, I advise that you may not want to do them during pregnancy." For her, maintaining an active lifestyle has been safe, fun, and empowering.

The impact was almost immediate; within weeks of starting personal training sessions at 4UrLife Movement, Lucia noticed significant mental and physical improvements. This positive experience motivated her to continue exercising throughout her pregnancy. "The staff has been so supportive."

For women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy but have reservations about working out, Lucia's story is a testament to the power of fitness as part of prenatal care. Her advice? Start early if possible and choose activities that feel right for your body because staying active can lead to a healthier pregnancy journey for both mom and baby alike.

Lucia’s story underscores how maintaining an appropriate fitness routine can enhance both physical strength and overall well-being throughout pregnancy a perspective worth considering for anyone navigating this transformative life stage.