When I was pregnant with my son in 2005, I made the decision early on to take care of myself. I would walk whenever possible, I ate the right foods (most of the time) and I tried to remain active. Toward the end of my pregnancy is when I really decided to do some pregnancy exercises that I felt really helped when I had an intense labor.

After he was born, I wanted to maintain that momentum and started doing Pilates when my son was about 9 months old. I found the workouts to be easy to perform, I could work at my own pace and I quickly saw results. Sadly, I let that part of my life fall by the wayside and exercise was at the bottom of my priority list.

With my second pregnancy and an active toddler running around, I knew I had to get back into a routine that would help me stay in shape and keep my sanity. In January, I found 10 Minute Solution: Prenatal Pilates. What caught my eye was that according to Fit Pregnancy Magazine, it stated that it's "great for all 3 trimesters." Plus, it was on sale for $10, and what could be better than a great deal?

Features

10 Minute Solution: Prenatal Pilates is broken up into five 10-minute workout routines - Standing Pilates, Core Pilates, Pilates for Buns and Thighs, Total Body Pilates, and Pilates for Flexibility You can play all 5 workouts or customize your routine by selecting 1 -5 workouts in your order of preference.

Lizbeth Garcia is the featured instructor on the DVD and what made me feel more at ease is that she is also pregnant (36 weeks) and conducting the workouts. There's nothing more intimidating than seeing a well fit instructor attempting to conduct a pregnancy workout. Throughout each workout session, Lizbeth is with you every step of the way encouraging you as you go through the workout routines.

When I first started this workout DVD, I was well into my second trimester, but since I was reassured that I could start this workout at any time, I figured I should be fine. I decided to go for broke and do all 5 sessions, just to check my endurance level. I found the routines to be easy to follow and not that difficult. Personally, I think because I had previous experience with Pilates, I found the routines to be easy on me. I was impressed and began to workout every day for the first month. Even my son would get involved with the workouts, although there were times when he made it more of a challenge. I found my energy level increased, I wasn't feeling as much pain as I had prior to not exercising and I felt good about myself. Most important, I was able to keep up with my son. When I couldn't find the time to do all five sessions, I would try to find time to do at least one of the 10 minute sessions. I always found that even if I did one session, my endurance level increased dramatically.

Sadly, as I entered my third trimester, I let my exercises fall to the wayside. Last night and this morning, I decided to make a change. I will be 38 weeks this week and delivering my second son on April 22nd via scheduled c-section. I decided to get in one good week of exercise before my other little man arrives. Last night, I decided to take is slow and do the Pilates for Flexibility routine. I could immediately tell that I was out of shape, but I took it easy and felt a little better. This morning, I was able to do the full 50-minute session and I have to admit that I feel so much better. Even after being away for so long, it's as if I was able to pick up where I left off.

Bonus Feature

Included on this 10 Minute Solution DVD is Postnatal Bonus Workout: Flat Belly Fast, an exercise routine specifically designed for after childbirth to help strengthen your muscles and get rid of the baby fat. I have not looked at this routine yet, since I haven't given birth, but I am glad to see that this option is available once I am well enough to get back into an exercise routine.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I have to say that 10 Minute Solution: Prenatal Pilates has been an asset in my home. I enjoy doing the workout sessions, it's perfect for all trimesters, the routines are not difficult or too strenuous and of course, you work at your own pace. I love the music included in each session - instrumental, no distracting singing and it also helps make the sessions more enjoyable. As always, with any exercise routine, be sure to consult with your physician to make sure you have the green light.

For more information on this or any of the many other 10 Minute Solution workout series, go to www.starzhoment.com/fitness.

Take care and thanks for reading.


Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: None of the Above