Rowing Machine Use During Pregnancy

When you're exhausted and getting bigger by the day, exercise may not be on the top of your to-do list. But exercising during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby. The American Council on Exercise notes that prenatal exercise can help stabilize and boost mood and reduce pregnancy discomforts such as swelling, constipation, insomnia and fatigue. Rowing offers a no-impact form of exercise that you can perform throughout your pregnancy.

Row Smart

A rowing machine can safely be used during pregnancy, especially if you're smart about your workout. Begin with a light five- to 10-minute warm-up to prepare your baby and your body for exercise. The website What to Expect recommends adjusting the rower's resistance to a level that's appropriate for you and taking it slow. Row at a comfortable pace for 20 to 30 minutes and end with a five-minute cool-down.

Accommodations

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Despite a bulging belly, you can safely use a rowing machine into your third trimester. You may, however, have to alter your form a bit to accommodate your expanding middle. As you move forward on the machine, spread your legs farther apart to make room for your belly, and pull the handle toward your middle to upper chest rather than to your midsection.