Pregnancy fitness with Gabby Reece

Pro volleyball player Gabrielle Reece, now mom to her newborn daughter Brody, discovered while she was pregnant that her workout needs changed with each trimester.

“Six weeks along in my second pregnancy, I was inspired to design six 15-minute total body trimester-specific workouts that are ob/gyn approved for pregnant women of low-to-moderate fitness levels,” Reece tells the London Free Press.

She focuses on exercises that will gently strengthen the core, as well as gentle stretching exercises to prepare you for labor. “Pregnancy throws off a women’s balance,” she says. “The extra weight is beginning to pull your body forward so performing single leg and single arm exercises enhances balance.”

Reece, who put on 30 pounds with each of her pregnancies, says it is important to exercise in moderation. “Do it as often as you can and feel good. It’s still important to rest. Do the DVD fives times a week, then on other days, keep active, keep moving, go for a swim, walk or just rest.”

Keeping fit during pregnancy keeps you healthy physically and mentally. “Emotionally you can handle stress better because you feel better and stay in shape during pregnancy,” Reece says.

Pick up Gabby’s PreNatal Workout DVD for $14.97 at gotogabby.com.

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