by Julie Tupler, RN, with Andrea Thompson
1996, 160 pages, paperback $13.00 PB0726

Tupler, a personal trainer and a nurse, developed the Maternal Fitness program to help women prepare for a healthy pregnancy, easier labor and quick recovery. One can follow the complete program by itself or incorporate it into an existing exercise program. Women of any fitness level can benefit from this program, which includes a do-it-yourself fitness evaluation so you know where to begin and what to expect. The program includes three parts: the BAKS Basics, the Maternal Fitness workout, and visualization/relaxation.

The BAKS Basics exercises safely and effectively strengthen the muscles that are used in childbirth, especially the transverse abdominus. BAKS Basics include: breathing, belly dancing, abdominal work, aerobics, kegels, squatting, stretching, and strengthening. Many of these exercises can be done throughout the day whenever you have a few free minutes. The Maternal Fitness workout is a complete body workout that targets all major muscle groups and takes about sixty to ninety minutes. The relaxation/visualization exercise is a great way to end your workout. The book includes easy-to-understand instructions and illustrations of all exercises. Small sections on anatomy and nutrition during pregnancy are also included.

Maternal Fitness is easy to read for the average woman of any fitness level who is planning a pregnancy or is pregnant and would like to start or enhance her exercise program. Childbirth educators and fitness professionals would also find this book helpful and could easily incorporate many of these important exercises into their classes.

Reviewed by Jennifer DeLugach, BS, ICCE, ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor