Training clients who are pregnant
Congratulations to your client!
Are you familiar with ACOG? They’re an incredibly valuable resource when it comes to all things related to pregnancy. I’d highly recommend you check out the following links to learn more about the organization and their advice for training pregnant women:
Here’s ACOG’s homepage: http://www.acog.org/
Here’s ACOG’s stance on exercise during pregnancy: http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq119.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130221T…
Here’s ACOG’s FAQ document on exercise and fitness in general: http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq045.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130221T…
In short, you want to ensure your client is comfortable at all times while exercising and that her heart rate stays under control. If they’re struggling to breath or are overheating this can be detrimental to the baby’s development.
Take a look at the “Related Questions” in the sidebar of this page if you haven’t already. You might find some additional resources that could help you develop a safe program for her.
Happy (healthy) training!
Hi Delmar,
there is little to add to Michael’s post. You also need to obtain the approval of her physician because the recommendations of the doctor will ultimately override any other guidelines.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Hi Delmar,
I do train pregnant women, and I always have open communication with their physician. Michael has some great points and I agree with Karin as well. You need to make sure their HR doesn’t elevate too much and some light weight training with cardio will be enough to keep them in good condition. Some pregnant women respond better than others, so it depends on the client. I have trained pregnant women up until 2 days before they had their baby and then others for much less time. You can make her wear a HR monitor to keep checking her HR and keep communicating with her doctor if needed, so you can all be in the same page. Also, keep looking for any signs of discomfort when training her.
Best,
Harris
Hello Delmar Carey,
Here is another link on IDEA for you to check out:
https://www.ideafit.com/fitness-articles/women-womens-health-issues
Please be sure to keep in touch with her doctor, limit the supine time and let the client’s progress lead the way. This is a time to be careful; but, still have fun.
This is also a rewarding time for all involved.
Take care.