By Pat Ziebell and John Nall

* The following summary is not meant to supersede the advice and recommendations of an individual's physician.  No exercise program should be employed without the consent and approval of the individual's physician.

Presentation Summary

HIT Pregnancy Guidelines -- 13 Critical Points

1.  Develop a relationship with the client's pregnancy physician.  Find out if there are any unique conditions and get his approval for the client's participation in the program.

2.  Never skip point #1

3.  Keep head elevated above the heart during training.  Never lay on back or stomach.

4.  Do not allow breath holding or val salva maneuver.  Limit isometric contractions.

5.  Avoid abdominal pressure -- especially on Leg Press and Lumbar Extension exercise.

6.  Center of gravity is changing as is body size and shape. Machine setting may need to be changed several times during the course of the pregnancy.

7.  Allow individual adequate hydration during the exercise session.

8.  Keep room temperature very cool (< 66 degrees Fahrenheit) and do not allow client to become overheated or perspire.

9.  Eliminate excessive force -- move very slowly against resistance -- 10 seconds lifting, 10 seconds lowering.

10.  No sudden movements, twisting, or jerking.

11.  Limit exercise session to 30 minutes -- less in warm conditions.

12.  Perform one "set" of each exercise.  No more than 8 exercises per session.

13.  Training should be conducted by a competent instructor.

Pregnancy / HIT Contraindications

• Pregnancy induced hypertension

• Pre-term rupture of membranes

• Pre-term labor during a previous pregnancy or the current pregnancy

• Incompetent cervix or carcelage placement

• Persistent second or third trimester bleeding

• Placenta Previa

• Intrauterine growth retardation