is strength training in pregnancy a waste of time??

[Sasmac2017]

Hi all, I'm currently 33+6 and am so flabby. I have lifted weights consistently 3x a week prior to pregnancy and right throughout but it seems like I have lost so much muscle tone. I also do 2-3 days a week of either walking or aqua jogging (running and HIIT has long gone due to peeing lall the time 😳). I've gained 33lbs so in covered in a layer as is. I started 5.7" and about 134lbs. Any personal trainers out there with any advice?? Obviously I have toned things down a bit as the pregnancy progresses but I'm so frustrated by it. Thanks in advance 😊

I feel your pain. I've kept up a minimum of 3 sessions a week weight and circuit training and now 34+3 and feel like mostly cellulite. I do absolutely think it has been worth keeping it up though and hopefully 'muscle memory' will kick in after birth to get some tone back. Even if you feel like you've lost muscle mass you have kept up your fitness and that will make a difference to labour and recovery. Stick at it...not long to go!

Hi chelle, thanks for your reply. Yes it's so annoying...I keep telling myself to keep up.with it as it probably will make a huge difference after. I only walked in my previous pregnancy but I still blew up with an 85lb gain!! I can still feel my muscles but just think I'm covered with a layer so can't see them anymore...lol. usually (unpregnant) I can do light weights and hiit and am very defined. Even lifting slightly heavier hasn't made the slightest difference. I wonder if its that relaxin hormone or something?? Oh well, big ups to the both of us for continuing to be fit mammas 😀

It is hard to stay motivated. I have really struggled with the body changes more than anything else during pregnancy but I'm sure our muscles are still in there somewhere! I think it is a combination of the hormones, water retention (defo noticing this more now even though I'm not 'swollen') and the body just wanting to build fat stores for feeding.

I'm sure it will make a big difference after though

Yes s ive been the same feelng unmotivated but mainly due to lack of result. Im not swollen either (it is winter here not sure if that makes a difference) but would be intersting to know exactly hiw much is water and how much is biscuits. I remember when i had my first son i lost about 10kg just giving birth.