Safe Exercise & Lifting During Pregnancy: A Doctor's Perspective

Question
i have been tying 2 walk 30 min a day 2 kep in shape but was wondering what else i can do to keep my body in the shape it was in before baby.  also i will be moving out of my storage and the dr said dont lift more than 15 pounds.  I am 17 weeks can i lift more?  what are my consequences if i lift too much?

Answer
Heavy lifting is not advised during pregnancy as the abdominal wall does not provide adequate strength and control to support your spine. This puts you at risk for back injury.

Women who have engaged in strength training before pregnancy can continue with exercises like squats, slowly tapering down the amount of resistance used as pregnancy progresses.

I'd suggest that you increase your fitness walking, so that you get 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days of the week. This will be most beneficial.

You could also try some prenatal yoga classes, aqua aerobics, or swimming to round out your fitness routine for the last half of your pregnancy.