Weightlifting during pregnancy

[CRZ1988]

I started a programme back in August last year doing weightlifting and cardio to shift a bit of weight.

It worked well and lost two stone. Now fast forward to November when my husband returned from deployment, I've hardly seen the inside of the gym and I've now gained 6lbs.... My question is, am I able to (sensibly) lift weights during pregnancy? Everything I've read details swimming, cardio and walking but nothing says about weightlifting. I use weightlifting as it helps with losing fat quicker than just cardio.

I don't lift mega weights and I don't lay flat on my back and would always go with someone just in case but what are your thoughts?

If your body is used to it then you can do (very)light weights and repetitions, but honestly don’t add any weight because your body releases a hormone which makes your joints relax more - the moment one of them doesn’t like the weight you’re giving it you’re in for months in a world of pain. So just be very careful, especially as you haven’t done anything in awhile so don’t go back to how it was before. Take it easy

Be careful due to the relaxin which can cause instability and weakness in the joints but there is no reason you can’t lift weights. I would probably step down from what you were lifting previously as you’ve had a little bit of time off but you could probably comfortably build back to where you were slowly. Make sure you let your gym know that you are pregnant (for insurance) and book in to see an instructor who can advise what will work best for you.