Working Woman Food: Safe Strength Training for Third Trimester

It is important to note that I am not a medical doctor nor do I work in the medical field.

I have consulted with my doctor before partaking in an exercise regimen and I suggest you do the same.

As I've ventured through my first pregnancy, I have made it a priority to be as healthy and fit as possible. There are so many reasons why it is important to maintain an active lifestyle while pregnant (if your doctor says it is safe to do so) and so many benefits of doing so.

I have been running throughout my pregnancy up until recently. I became frustrated when just a mile or two started to become very laborious (love that word) for me and it hit me: I'm carrying around 28 extra pounds! So, I've resorted to swift walking instead. I'm still getting a great cardio workout and I'm not putting unnecessary wear and tear on my knees and ankles.

Keep in mind: working through pain while pregnant won't make you stronger. In fact, it may lead to future injuries or recurring pain after pregnancy.

One thing I've avoided throughout pregnancy is strength training. I just didn't feel prepared to maintain a strength training schedule. I was afraid I would pull something or lift too much weight.

Being a collegiate athlete and avid exercise enthusiast, this has been difficult for me. There are days I have longed to use the machines in the gym or bench press the bar, but I know I just can't do that right now...especially now that I have taken so much time off from strength training all together.

I was discussing this with a coworker last week who also played collegiate ball and he started telling me about the Dailey Method. I hadn't heard of it, but he said some of his female friends didn't like lifting so they did these exercises instead. I have looked some up and plan to try them this weekend. They look like a great workout while not putting additional stress with external weights.