Pregnancy & Baby Index: Pregnancy - Fitness: Can I continue Nordic Track skiing workouts during pregnancy?
Can I continue Nordic Track skiing workouts during pregnancy?
Lisa Stone
Are Nordic Track skiing workouts okay during pregnancy, or when planning a pregnancy? Lisa Stone, an ACE-certified Pre-and Post-Natal Fitness Instructor, has some things to consider along with your caregiver's advice.
Your question
I'm 31 and in the beginning stages of planning for my first pregnancy. Can I continue my Nordic Track skiing workouts, or will this place too much stress on my abdomen and be unsafe for a developing fetus? Is it better to find another workout, such as a treadmill? - Debbie
The expert answers
Debbie,
The Nordic Track will be fine to continue, at least through the middle of
your 2nd trimester. As your belly and breasts grow, you may find the
position of the pads on the machine too uncomfortable. At that point you
can switch to another aerobic machine such as the treadmill, step mill,
stairmaster, or elliptical trainer (my personal favorite!).
Because you'll be losing the upper body component with these other machines, you'll need to
add some upper body strengthening exercises as well. You can use hand
weights, resistance tubing, weight machines, or just a couple of big soup
cans out of your pantry. You'll want to target the front of your upper
arms, back of your upper arms, shoulders, chest, sides of your back, and
your upper back. If you need specific exercise suggestions, please ask!
As with any type of exercise, though, make sure to drink LOTS of water
before, during, and after your workouts to stay well-hydrated.
Good luck with the baby making!
Lisa :)