If you want to ensure that you have the healthiest pregnancy possible, it is vastly important to keep exercising safely to the best of your ability throughout each term. Exercising while pregnant is no easy feat, however.
First, there are the physical limitations - morning sickness, fatigue, raging hormones. Then there are the details: what exercises should you do?
Where will you do it? How much will it cost?
One easy answer to these questions is to work out at home. While it isn't for everyone, it can be a convenient way to fit in exercise both during pregnancy and after the baby comes.
Before you take the plunge into home exercise, realize that it takes plenty of self-motivation. At a gym, there is nothing to do but exercise.
At home, you may find many projects to distract you from exercising (i.e. suddenly your sock drawer must be re-organized). Make sure you will stick with it, even when the laundry isn't finished or your living room is a disaster area.
One of the easiest ways to stay healthy during pregnancy is with cardio exercise. A high-quality cardio machine can be a lifesaver during bad weather or for those times when you're squeezing in a workout while the baby naps.
If you're wondering which one to buy, just about anything will do. Treadmills are popular because they are easy to use, there's no learning curve and because walking is great exercise, both during pregnancy and after delivery when you're easing back into fitness.
Bikes are great, but you may not be too thrilled sitting on one immediately after giving birth (ouch!). Upright bikes can strain an already aching back.
If this is a problem for you, consider a recumbent bike, which provides back support. When choosing a bike, look for a comfortable seat, adjustable handles, one that is easy to use, and a covered flywheen to protect little fingers.
Elliptical trainers offer a low-impact workout, which can be heaven on your aching joints. Some models offer arm handles (for a full-body workout), adjustable ramps, and a variety of programs from which to choose.
When buying an elliptical trainer, look for one that has a smooth motion to it, arm handles to add intensity, adjustable resistance to keep you progressing, and adjustable ramps to change things up. Other cardio machines to consider include stair steppers, rowers and cross-country ski machines, all of which are great options but tend to be more expensive and have a higher learning curve than the machines listed above.
Cardio is important, but you should also stock your home gym with basic equipment for stretching and weight training. You'll need a set of dumbbells ranging from 3 to 15 pounds, as well as a mat for stretching and abdominal workouts.
These are inexpensive and can be found at any sporting goods or department store. Just make sure to keep your weights out of reach of children's fingers.
Finding the right machine can be difficult since there are so many choices. Use this checklist to help decide what to buy: map out your space.
Determine how much space you have and where your equipment will go. Be sure it's near a TV and/or stereo to keep you motivated.
Determine your budget. Cardio machines range from $150 to $5,000, but remember - you get what you pay for.
A quality machine will last longer and give you better workouts. Decide what you want.
Don't buy a bike just because your best friend said it's a great workout. Choose what you enjoy doing and, more important, what you see yourself doing for years to come.
Try before you buy. Visit a few sporting goods stores to test different machines and plan to spend 10 minutes or so on each one.
Pay attention to the following: How loud is it?
If it wakes the dead, move on. Does it have all the extras you want (i.e. heart rate monitor, etc.)?
Is it easy to use? Does it have a good warranty?
Have you heard of the manufacturer? Do a little research.
The Internet is a good place to start when shopping for home exercise equipment. With these tips, you can be sure that you and your baby will be healthy and strong.
Author Resource:-
Jack R. Landry has been writing about the exercise and health industry for years. He recommends using home exercise equipment to stay healthy and fit.
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