Leisa Hart's FitMama - Prenatal Workout Review

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(More customer reviews)I own almost two dozen aerobic and strength training videos. Some offer challenging workouts. Others were a waste of time and money. Fit Mama is my first pregnancy video (although this will be my third child). IT IS EXCELLENT! Here is a summary:
INTRODUCTION - Leisa Hart first tells you what to expect in her video. She explains that the abdominal exercises have been modified to prevent the vertical muscles, the recti abdominis, from separating during pregnancy. Guidelines from the American College of OBGyNs are listed. Leisa recommends a frequency of 3 to 4 times per week, but completing one section at a time vs. the entire 60 minutes fit my schedule better.
SALSA (20 min) - The setting is bare: one large room with hardwood floors and two glass paneled doors in back. The participants are separated into groups. Leisa, in her third trimester, stands in the center. On her left are two women in their second trimester. Two women in their first trimester are on her right. All movements in the Salsa portion of the tape, such as the mambo cha-cha-cha, are acceptable for moms at any stage. I salsa on carpet and find it sometimes tough to slide. When Leisa introduces a new move, she performs it twice, then asks you to join her. Her arm cues make it easy to follow along. She frequently asks, "How do you feel?" so that you can monitor your intensity level.
YOGA FAT BURN (20 min) - This section helped ease my lower back pain. Leisa focuses on breathing techniques and stresses correct knee placement. In the Warrior position, the moms in the first tri put their hand on the floor, second tri put forearm to thigh, and Leisa places her hand on her thigh. But she suggest you do the position most comfortable for you. They complete 3 repetitions for each side.
LABOR AND DELIVERY PREP (6 min) - Yoga ball and strap are optional. I had neither, but performed the exercises, like Kegels, with no trouble. Different variations for the ab exercises match the stage of pregnancy.
PRENATAL STRETCH AND RELAX (8 min) - This sections includes cat stretches, breathing techniques, and positions for each stage of pregnancy. Leisa inserts helpful tips, such as the importance of laying on your left side to get nutrients to the baby.

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Buns of Steel instructor Leisa Hart continues to create dynamic programs that are safe, fun and effective to get you the results you deserve! Her warm, approachable personality and impeccable cueing has motivated millions to embrace exercise. As an ACE and AFAA certified instructor with over 19 years fitness industry experience, Leisa specializes in Prenatal Exercise, Lifestyle & Weight Management, Yoga and Toning.Prenatal exercise will help you:- Ease back pain - Improve digestion - Avoid calf cramps - Increase energy levels - Avoid excessive weight gain - Ease emotional highs and lows - Prepare for labor and delivery - Bond with your baby - Bounce back more quickly after deliveryStay fit through each stage of your pregnancy with International Fitness Expert and expectant mom Leisa Hart. This innovative method helped her stay fit and energetic during her first pregnancy. FitMama Prenatal Workout follows the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. Leisa will help you increase your self-confidence with your changing body and feel great from conception to delivery!

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Complete Pregnancy Fitness with Erin O'Brien (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)I normally cannot stand work out videos but knew I should do something besides walking to keep my fitness level up. I was pleasantly surprised by this video.
1. Erin O'Brien is not irritatingly peppy, but realistic and down to earth. There is very little excess dialogue, which I appreciated. She imparts just the right amount of info and throws in a few extras about physiology and anatomy, which I appreciated. Plus there are water and pee breaks! ( which I really needed)
2. The workout is probably best suited for someone who has done a few classes before and has at least a moderate level of fitness. But I suppose a beginner could simply watch it a few times before attempting if it were a bit too fast paced for them. She adds modifications for times when the heart rate is too high, which is nice. I thought at first it would be too easy for me, but oops. It got me! (in a good way, of course)
3. The workout is complete, I thought, especially given it's timeframe of only 40 minutes. That includes a short stretching session afterwards, which made me feel really good.
4. The production value was great -judicious amount of camera angle changes and fades, making it easy to copy her body mechanics. Simple set-an average, well lit living room. All the props she used were standard furniture. I had to make some small adaptations but all were easily accomplished.
5. Best of all-unobtrusive music, used mostly to provide rhythm. No trendy production, no silly distracting lyrics, just background percussion oriented music at a nice soft volume (Although I really dislike the music that plays for the menu, but that doesn't matter)
OVERALL: I highly recommend this work out video and look forward to using the post-natal DVD as well.

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Product DescriptionAn efficient, supportive training program for the big day and your new lifeWhether you re a regular exerciser who wants to stay fit or newly committed to exercise for your health and your baby s, Hollywood trainer Erin O Brien offers you safe and effective workouts that can take you every step of the way.This box set includes both of these programs (also sold separately):PRENATAL FITNESS FIX While seven months pregnant with her second child, Erin leads you in a 40-minute blend of fat-burning cardio, muscle toning, strength training, and tension-relieving stretches. Also includes a 20-minute partner workout, which Erin demonstrates with her husband, actor James Denton (Desperate Housewives). "This is the one that will make you sweat. It's also amusing and entertaining"Chicago Tribune. POSTNATAL RESCUE Ease back into exercise with Erin s 3 invigorating progressions. In just 15 minutes a day, rehabilitate your back, abdominals, buttocks, inner thighs, and hips. With a bonus section of gentle first stretches, Erin guides you from the very beginning of your recovery up to one year postpartum. Erin O Brien has 10 years of experience as a pre/postnatal exercise specialist working in elite fitness clubs in New York City and Los Angeles. She holds several certifications, including one in pre/postnatal training from the Esquerre Fitness Group. Consult your doctor before attempting these routines or any other fitness program.

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Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Workout (2009) Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm 7 months pregnant, and highly recommend Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Work Out (even if you are not pregnant). Finally, a prenatal dvd that actually tones the body without jerking!! You definitely "feel the burn," without feeling like you're hurting the baby.
My favorite section is the stretching. It totally relaxes and stretches out my pregnancy hip aches. The music is meditative and inspiring. I feel totally de-stressed and focused on loving my baby and body.
Another plus, a hidden surprise, there's a postnatal work out. Also, I love that I can do the work out with just the music, which helps me focus even more.
I couldn't get through the rest of my pregnancy without this! I get people commenting on how fit I am at 7 months. Preggo's you must get this DVD!!

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Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Workout integrates elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility to help you stay fit and lean during the incredible journey of pregnancy. The dynamic flow of postural movements will burn calories, sculpt and tone your body, and lengthen the muscles, helping you to achieve a long and lean physique during your pregnancy.This workout offers three segments: 20 minutes standing work, 20 minutes mat work, and 10 minutes stretching with relaxation. In addition, this DVD includes a bonus 10 minute post-natal abs segment starring Leah Sarago. You can choose one segment at a time or all three for a complete, total body workout. Music only option.Music composed by Alberto Rivera.Instructors: Suzanne Bowen and Leah Sarago.Executive Producers: Suzanne Bowen and Leah Sarago.Ruah Mind Body Movement: Suzanne Bowen's Long and Lean Prenatal Workout ©2009Please consult your physician before beginning this or any exercise program.

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Erin O'Brien's Prenatal Fitness Fix (2005) Review

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(More customer reviews)I did the 40 minute routine for the 1st time yesterday. I am only 8 weeks pregnant and found this DVD to be somewhat challenging. I can't imagine what it would be like for someone who is further along. I would recommend this workout for someone that is already a seasoned exerciser. It's fast paced, so I would not recommend this DVD for a beginner. I am an avid runner (average 8-15 miles/week) and regular gym visitor (4 days/week using an elliptical and bike), a yoga student (1-2 days/week) and a former step aerobic student. What I didn't like about this routine was that I had to re-arrange my furniture in order to do some of the exercises in Segment 1 (the 40 minutes is divided into 4 segments.) I wished the DVD had prepared me for what was needed as far as "equipment." I had to keep running around the living room/dining room to "find" and "arrange" the needed equipment. So those of you that wish to purchase this DVD, you will need a sturdy coffee table, the edge of your couch, a flat wall, a dining room chair, a living room cushioned chair (I don't have one of these and used the loveseat) and an exercise mat. The other thing I didn't like about the DVD were some of the crazy camera angles and the fact that Erin doesn't always countdown the number of reps. For some of the floor exercises, you are supposed to keep a long neck (looking down while on all fours), however Erin wasn't giving instructions and I had to keep looking up at the TV to figure out what I supposed to be doing. Overall, I did have a pretty good workout. It got my heart rate up and I did sweat a little. I'm sure I will get better at keeping up with the routine.

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"Erin’s a pro at fitness, she’s a pro at pregnancy, and she fuses these together for two perfect prenatal workouts. I highly recommend this fitness program." —Ellen Barrett, M.S., bestselling exercise video star and author of Weights for Weight Loss Staying fit and energized throughout your pregnancy just got easier. Custom-created by Hollywood trainer and Hollywood Mom ERIN O’BRIEN, Prenatal Fitness Fix is a unique program that quickly and effectively conditions your growing body. Modified Pilates, kegels, sports conditioning, and true-blue body sculpting seamlessly blend together in Erin’s two workouts. You’ll get it all: fat-burning cardio, muscle toning, strength training, and tension-relieving stretches. The first workout—40 minutes long—is like an exercise class in the comfort of your own home. No special equipment needed, just clear some space in your living room. Erin’s a genius at keeping your mind focused, your body invigorated, and your spirits up. The second workout—20 minutes long—is for you and a partner. Erin and her husband, actor JAMES DENTON (Desperate Housewives, The Pretender), take you through a circuit-training partner series. It’s the perfect way to include others in your pregnancy journey! ERIN O’BRIEN has 10 years of experience as a pre/postnatal exercise specialist working in elite fitness clubs in both New York City and Los Angeles. She holds several certifications, including one in pre/postnatal training from the Esquerre Fitness Group.

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Denise Austin: Fit & Firm Pregnancy (2006) Review

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(More customer reviews)Those who are somewhat new to working out and want to get some exercise to look and/or feel better during pregnancy will definitely benefit from this workout, which is easy to follow and do. You'll feel refreshed and stretched after doing it. Exercise is the best cure for aching bones and muscles during pregnancy! And as Denise will remind you at least 30 times, "You're doing something good for yourself AND your baby."
If you've been more active throughout your pregnancy, though, you should be warned that this workout is basically the equivalent of the warm-up you would do before a non-pregnancy workout. You do a lot of the step-touch type moves that you would get in a typical aerobics warm-up. Of course, there's only so much you can safely do when you're pregnant, so a lot of the moves are repetitive and can get boring. But in the end, the idea is to get your body moving, and it does accomplish that.
I didn't get this DVD until my 3rd trimester, and I enjoyed it. I felt like I got a good, basic, safe workout. But I don't think the cardio section would would have been enough of a challenge during my 1st and 2nd trimesters.

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Congratulations! You are beginning the most exciting and challenging chapter of your life: having a baby! But that doesn't mean you can't stay in shape. With Fit & Firm: Pregnancy, fitness icon (and the mother of two) Denise Austin delivers an energy-boosting program that focuses on everyday strength, "perfect pregnancy posture" and reshaping your after-baby body! Breathing and Core Awareness: Stimulate your core muscles and elevate your spirit during this 5-minute preparatory segment. Cardio Workout: Give your energy a boost with this low-impact, fun, 20-minute, heart-healthy workout adapted for all three trimesters. 1st - 2nd Trimester Toning: Rejuvenate and sculpt your body from head to toe with 20 minutes of prenatal-fitness fun! 3rd Trimester Toning: Soothe sore muscles and maintain core strength with this 20-minute, refreshing workout that helps prepare you for delivery! "Bonus" Post Bounce-Back Workout: Bounce back fast with this 10-minute, invigorating routine that re-educates the abs for a waist-slimming workout.

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