Is it safe for pregnant women to use elliptical machines?
Being pregnant definitely comes with some challenges. Exercising just isn’t the same as before a pregnancy. Swollen feet and aching backs may convince you to skip your normal workout routines.
While certain exercises and workout machines may not be good choices while pregnant, using an elliptical machine safely can help you stay healthy and in shape.
At The Fitness Superstore, we sell the best selection of elliptical machines in El Paso. We want to help you stay healthy while pregnant, and that’s why we want to give you information about using elliptical machines during your pregnancy.
Always Talk to Your Doctor Before Beginning Any Fitness Routine
Whether you’re considering using an elliptical machine or taking up another activity, always talk to your doctor first. Your doctor can assess all of your health conditions to ensure that the exercises you want to pursue are safe for you and your baby.
Benefits of Using an Elliptical Machine While Pregnant
Many experts agree that staying active during your pregnancy provides numerous benefits. Exercising can help you maintain a healthy body weight while potentially helping manage muscle aches and labor pains.
An elliptical machine may be a good choice while pregnant because it offers a low-impact exercise activity.
Low-impact exercises can help you avoid sore joints after a workout. Ellipticals with stationary bars can help you stay balanced as your belly grows. Another advantage to these machines is that you can exercise indoors. This means you’ll be able to exercise no matter what it’s like outside.
How to Safely Use an Elliptical Machine While Pregnant
Whether you’re pregnant or not, knowing how to use any exercise equipment safely and correctly is crucial.
Safety First
While low-impact elliptical machines can be safe for all trimesters of a woman’s pregnancy, always consider safety first. That’s why speaking with your doctor before engaging in any exercise routine is always essential.
If you’ve never exercised before or are considered a high-risk pregnancy, discuss these points with your doctor.
It’s recommended that you always work out with a partner. That way, if you experience dizziness, cramping, or contractions, someone will be there to help. It’s best to always hold both elliptical handles to help you balance while using the machine.
Lastly, always follow your elliptical machine’s instructions to ensure you’re using it correctly.
Start Slow
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests that pregnant women should engage in 30 minutes of exercise daily. Once your doctor approves of using an elliptical machine, begin your routine at a comfortable and manageable pace.
If you’re new to this type of exercise or haven’t exercised in a while, you may not be able to do 30 minutes initially, and that’s OK! It’s vital that you don’t overexert yourself. Find the amount of time that works best for you, and try adding 5 minutes per week to that time until you reach the full 30 minutes.
It’s suggested that the pace you want to achieve is equivalent to a brisk walk. When you feel strong enough, you can change up your routine by reversing your leg motions for a few minutes to engage different muscles.
Monitor Your Vitals
As was mentioned before, you shouldn’t overexert yourself with any exercise routine. Doing so can become dangerous.
One way to measure your exertion is to monitor your heart rate. While there isn’t a clear consensus on what a dangerous number is, the National Library of Medicine articles suggest heart rates should not exceed 140 beats per minute.
Another way to gauge your exertion is by monitoring your breathing. You should be able to comfortably hold a conversation while exercising without becoming winded.
If you ever encounter these symptoms, immediately stop exercising and contact your doctor:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Cramping
- Rapid fatigue
Other Exercises Generally Safe for Pregnancy
While you can solely rely on using an elliptical machine for your daily exercise, you can always change up or add to your exercise routine.
Swimming and Water Exercises
Water exercises are a great low-impact workout. The water supports your weight, helping to relieve the burden placed on your joints and back.
Yoga and Pilates
Before starting a yoga or pilates class, tell the instructor you’re pregnant. Your instructor should help you find ways to modify poses while telling you which positions to avoid.
There are also prenatal yoga and pilates classes you can try to help you stay active.
Stationary Bikes
Stationary bikes are also a great low-impact choice. It’s usually seen as safer than riding an outdoor bike because there’s less of a chance of becoming unbalanced while cycling.
As always, check with your doctor before engaging in any exercise routines.
Pregnant and looking for elliptical machines in El Paso?
At The Fitness Superstore, we have a huge current inventory of ellipticals online and in our El Paso and Albuquerque stores. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about paying too much because we have the best low-price guarantee in the industry.
Shop online or visit our store today to find the best elliptical machines in El Paso!