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Expert Q&A
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| By April Underwood Fitness Consultant Playa del Rey, California | ||
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I am five weeks pregnant and do step aerobics using two risers. One instructor suggested taking a riser out. Do you agree? When would you suggest removing both risers?
I remember when I used to teach step class several years ago. I had a student in my class that was 7 months pregnant stepping on two risers. Last week I was taking a very vigorous dance class and there was a student 8 months pregnant.
Adjustments to your workout level are based on your individual fitness level and overall comfort during exercise. According to the ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology), your pulse during exercise should not exceed 140bpm, partially due to the diversion of blood and oxygen flow from the developing fetus to your working muscles. Ask your fitness instructor to show you how to take your pulse."
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