Quote:
Originally posted by gsc4:
The general rule of thumb is not to start any new form of exercise while you are pregnant. Continue doing any exercise you are already doing consistently, but do not attempt to start something new.
That said ... Be careful about the oxysize recommendation above. Oxycise is not considered a form of exercise by any of the mainstream fitness experts. While you are pregnant is not the time to start anything new, especially something that is not well accepted.
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Hi gsc4, You're wise to be skeptical of things that are non-traditional. Many things out today aren't good for our bodies, so I truly appreciate where you're coming from and thank you for your honesty.
Also, you're right that Oxycise! is not considered a form of exercise by most (I don't agree with the word "any") mainstream fitness experts. It is likely "not well accepted" because it is so non-traditional. Like so many other non-traditional concepts, it takes time for the concept to gain acceptance. (Just like those who believed the world is flat--it certainly looks that way when you stand on a beach and look out on the horizon--but we all know now that this is untrue.)
Many articles and studies have been done on the benefits of deep breathing. Oxycise! is simply an aerobic/diaphragmatic breathing program combined with isotonic and isometric exercises. Aerobic simply means oxygen to the body, not running or jumping as most people believe. Oxycise! does not involve holding your breath.
Here's what Oxycise! has said about doing their program during pregnancy:
"Jill has personally used Oxycise! through a pregnancy and she said it was fantastic! She had four children, and the first three pregnancies were very hard on her body; she felt like she waddled everywhere. But she used the Oxycise! techniques during her fourth pregnancy. She said it was wonderful. She really felt great during the pregnancy, and stayed so firm that friends and acquaintances couldn't believe she went full term. She had the easiest, quickest delivery she had ever had. Not only that, but she could zip up her jeans again within a couple days after the birth. And of course, her beautiful baby was absolutely healthy.
We DO recommend that you ask your doctor for his or her approval, just to be on the safe side. Everyone has different bodies, and on occasion there are those who have various problems with pregnancy.
If you do not have a history of miscarriages, or other problems of pregnancy (other than gaining too much weight) then you should be fine lifting and tightening your abdominal area. In fact, by doing so, you can develop wonderful support muscles for that area, as well as getting toned and trim. This will help you avoid other possible problems with carrying your baby as you move into the last couple months.
You might wish to adapt some of the body positions to make them more comfortable as you get farther along. The Oxycise! eating guidelines are also fine for pregnancy.
Always use common sense and wisdom in what you do."
Susan R.
[This message has been edited by Susan_R._
] (edited 02-28-2001).]