How to Exercise on the Gazelle While Pregnant

Exercising while pregnant has many benefits for both mom and baby. It can boost energy levels, help ensure a speedy postpartum recovery, and help the body prepare for labor. However, pregnant women should not over exert themselves. Therefore, exercising on a low impact machine like the Gazelle can be beneficial.

Instructions

1. Talk to your doctor to see if it is safe to use a Gazelle during your pregnancy. Every woman has different circumstances surrounding her pregnancy. Therefore your doctor will tell you if this is an exercise you can complete.

2. Stretch before you get on the Gazelle. The Gazelle offers a low impact exercise, but you still want to stretch your legs and arms before you get on.

3. Make sure you are properly balanced. Balance changes during pregnancy, so it is important to grab the handles as you step on the Gazelle. Step up slowly and do not exercise without holding on to the handles.

4. Walk on the Gazelle. The Gazelle allows you to use both your upper and lower body as you glide on the machine. You will glide as if you are power walking, or jogging, but with much less impact on your body. Not only will you get a cardio workout, but the movements of the machine allow you to tone the muscles in your arms.

5. Stop if you feel any pain or discomfort. The Gazelle is a low impact exercise machine, but it can be hard on the knees. Knee pain can be increased with the extra weight from pregnancy.

6. Step off of the Gazelle carefully. Make sure the machine has fully stopped before you step off. Hold on to the handles and look behind you as you step down.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your Gazelle is put together properly and have someone who is not pregnant test it before you get on. The Gazelle has a screen that tells you approximately how many calories you have burned. However, this is only an estimate. The calories you burn will depend on the Gazelle model you are using, your current weight, your workout intensity, and the amount of time you spend on the machine. Only increase the speed of your workout if you feel comfortable. You do not have to move fast to get a good workout. Check your heart rate with the sensors. Your heart rate should never be higher than 140 beats per minute. Do not hold your breath while working out; you don't want to cut off your baby's oxygen supply.

• The Gazelle is designed to hold up to 250 lbs. Do not let go of the handles while on the machine. You do not want to lose your balance. The Gazelle probably should not be used by women in the last two months of pregnancy due to balance issues. Stop if you feel any pain or discomfort.

Resources

• Tony Little's Gazelle Edge