You can do some weight training during pregnancy; you just need to keep it safe, and let your prenatal care provider know what you’re doing.

Weight training is almost always a good addition to your exercise routine. It won’t burn as many calories as aerobic exercise, but it does build muscle, and the more muscle you have, the more efficient your body is at burning calories all the time. As a pregnant mama, weight training can help you to maintain muscle tone and minimize pregnancy aches and pains.

How to: If you’re going to incorporate weight training during pregnancy always use good form. If you don’t know what good weight lifting form is then get to a gym, and have an experienced trainer give you a lesson. If your belly gets in the way of good form you’d be better off using weight lifting machines at the gym, than free weights at home.

If you’re a newbie to weights aim for just 10-15 minute sessions using light weights (5 lbs or less), and only do about 8-15 reps. As you lift weights don’t forget to breathe. Some people unintentionally hold their breath as they exercise but that’s not a good idea. If you ever feel dizzy or sick, stop right away. If you need some help getting started with weight lifting during pregnancy a good DVD to get is Tracey Mallet’s 3 in 1 Pregnancy System DVD.