I've been personal training all kinds of people for the past 11 years. I would probably say that 60% of those are women. It has given me great insight to women . I still dont have it all figured out....Let's be honest, I'm not even scratching the surface. One thing I love watch is women as they go through the change of pregnancy. It still amazes me. I watched as my exwife went through the stages of pregnancy and in turn have watched as no fewer than 15 current and past clients have done the same. The first thing I did was go out and buy a ton of books on pregnancy and fitness. It is possible to continue with a workout regiment during pregnancy. The three most important things you can do is : first, ask your doctor if he/she has any guidlines for you as it pertains to fitness. Your blood work may show certain restrictions. Second ,tell your personal trainer. We actually need to know. It will change our approach. First off I wont scream"what the hell...10 more reps!!" Third and most important, listen to your body. Listen to your body. Listen to your body. If it hurts..STOP! A few warning signs to be on the lookout for once you have a doctors clearance to workout:

1. pain in the abdomen,chest,legs
2. Nausea
3. Abnormal bleeding
4. Heart palpatations
5. Overheating,especially during the first 6 weeks

Remember that your body changes. Don't beat yourself up about it. Your uterus grows to about a thousand times its normal size. This puts pressure on your diaphragm which can cause a change in your breathing during cardiovascular exercise. Kepp this in mind and slow down your pace. The growth in your uterus will also put pressure on your bladder so make sure a bathroom is close by. The extra weight you will be carrying will also put added pressure on your back,knee and ankle joints. You may get some swelling in those areas. Make sure your back is supported and try to widen your stance during certain exercises like squats. Go get yourself a swiss ball(big blow up ball). Use the bosu.

Overall you can continue with any workout program. Just pair it down. It is better to be over cautious. Even circuit training is still very doable. Take your weights down about 10 to 20% and cut your interval time in half.

Listen to your bodies ladies. You're beautiful no matter how you feel. Try to rest as much as possible and...........consider the name "Tom" . Seriously.