http://www.liftbigeatbig.com/2011/11/benefits-of-weightlifting-during.html
The Benefits of Weightlifting During Pregnancy
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| Thanks to CrossfitThreshold.com for the photo. |
When
one thinks of a pregnant woman, images may come to one's mind of
fragility, weakness, and cravings for pickles and ice cream. You can
thank the early 20th century for this change in the course of human
events. Up until the beginning of mega-hospitals, woman engaged in
physical activity usually right up to the day of labor if they were part
of the working class. My grandfather grew up in Africa, and he told me
that the women in his village would literally be working in their
gardens and giving birth while holding a third-world squat. That is in a bit of a contrast to the present mindset, is it not?
But
is exercise and weightlifting harmful to the unborn baby and the
mother? Or, can it be incredibly beneficial to both parties? This
article will attempt to draw a conclusion on the topic of weightlifting
during pregnancy.
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| Erin from Xplore Crossfit, 14lb strict press @ 8 months pregnant! |
Like
with most physical warnings from the 20th century, they are now slowly
being reversed, and science is slowly beginning to crawl out of the hole
that it dug itself. The science has begun to reverse itself from
previous recommendations that women stay off their feet during
pregnancy, and rather than suggesting very light cardio, it now suggests
moderate weight training. This was once thought that of as a strenuous
activity that would result in a premature birth and lower birth weight.
Tell that to the hordes of pregnant warriors currently backsquatting at
your local gym. It's simply not the case.
In
every study I have read thus far, pregnancy outcomes were more
favorable in the groups of pregnant woman who participated in exercise
vs. non-exercise. In one particular study, significant data included a shorter length of hospitalization, lower incidence of C-section, and an overall improved AGPAR score.
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| Xplorecrossfit.com |
I have talked before about the hormonal response
you will get from weightlifting and it relates directly to this current
topic of pregnancy. If flooding your body with beneficial hormones like
testosterone, HGH, and IGF-1 is beneficial without being
pregnant, imagine the positive effects it will have on your baby. I am
talking lifelong effects; things like a healthier birth weight, less
chance for allergies, stronger bones, and possibly even a lowered risk
of depression or other mental disorders. Some research has also shown
that physical activity during pregnancy can help lower the risk of
gestational diabetes.
If
that isn't enough for you, research has also shown that women who
continue to train through their pregnancy put on less extra weight than
those who do not exercise. Women who train through their pregnancy also
have an easier time losing weight after the pregnancy. This is good
information for all mothers who fear the extra weight that pregnancy may
leave you with.
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| Get those heels down! |
In
closing, I am not suggesting that you hit your training with the same
intensity you had during pre-pregnancy, but maintaining a modified
version of your current training, under the eyes of an EXPERIENCED
strength coach will help you and your child reap the benefits of proper
strength training. Think about the long-term positive effects that your
training will have on your child's future.
The
human body is incredibly effective at adapting to change. This applies
to all types of scenarios and situations, working out is no different.
Following the same routine for a prolonged period of time will have
nothing but toxic consequences to one's mind, spirit and progress.
