Exercise Tips from DTP


	Consumers
		Benefits, Safety & Guidelines
		Prenatal Exercise
		Postpartum Exercise
		Find A Class or Trainer
		Nutrition for Childbearing
		Registration & Orders

E-mail the Expert
with ??'s about
exercise & pregnancy.

More and more research demonstrates that aerobic exercise for women helps prevent major health problems.

The staff of our prenatal fitness program--Dancing Thru Pregnancy® (DTP)--regularly monitors research and applies it to help keep our program
safe and effective.

DTP combines aerobics and special strength exercises with
yoga-type centering, relaxation, and group support. It is available
to women around the world.

Check out Find A Class or Trainer to start exercising!

[Benefits] [Safety Issues] [Guidelines] [Ask the Expert] [Splinting the Abdomen]

	Benefits
		Relief from discomforts Improved stamina before, during and after labor Less need for intervention during labor and birth Quick recovery period following birth

	Safety Issues
		High intensity exercise competes with pregnancy for oxygen and nutrients Uterine blood flow decreases with moderate and high intensity exercise Some positions - standing still or lying on your back for a long time - may contribute to blood pressure syndromes and loss of uterine blood flow Stress hormones associated with a competitive exercise environment may contribute to premature labor The need for protein and water is increased Sudden, jarring movements may have negative effects Splinting the Abdomen During Curl Downs: After 20 weeks, use curl downs to strengthen abdominals. Be sure to "splint" or pull the sides of the abdomen together while curling down as shown in photos:

	Guidelines
		Get proper screening from your health care provider Do some centering and relaxing exercises along with aerobics, strength and stretch Avoid fatigue and overtraining; do regular exercise 3 or 4 times a week Eat small meals many times a day (200-300 calories every 2-3 hours) Drink at least 8 cups of water every day Avoid hot, humid places Wear good shoes BE CAREFUL!