Fit to Deliver: An Innovative Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness Program, 2nd ed.

Abstract

Fit to Deliver was written by three health or fitness professionals—a physician, a physiotherapist, and an exercise physiologist—who set out to produce a “benchmark health and fitness resource for pregnant and postpartum women.” Their goal was to create a programme that could be used by any woman, regardless of her fitness level. The authors state that this book relies on the latest scientific research as well as on the practical knowledge of health and fitness professionals who work with women throughout their pregnancies. This book was first published in 2000, and this second edition catches the eye with its attractive cover and many illustrations and photographs. More detailed information is offered in this edition, including a section of selected references and resources that was lacking from the first edition. However, I was often left wondering if statements made in the book were factual or merely based on clinical or practical knowledge, as there is little use of reference citations. The index at the back of the book is an asset. The authors encourage reading the first two chapters of this easy-to-read book before beginning the actual programme so that the reader is aware of safety concerns and fitness guidelines. The book aims to guide the reader through a fitness programme from start to finish. It would be best to read it in its entirety in order to benefit from all that it has to offer. Fit to Deliver attempts to tailor the exercises presented for each trimester of pregnancy and for beginning, intermediate, and advanced fitness levels. The authors frequently remind readers that the exercises “are not exhaustive and you may add others based on your experience or on the advice of your healthcare or fitness professional.” I liked the vast number of photographs depicting many of the exercises, including position variations. The “tips from the team” that are highlighted in boxes found on select pages are also beneficial and attention getting. One chapter is designated solely for the “core,” with many photographs and descriptions of the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles and exercise variations. Included in this section is information on postural changes, the body mechanics of lifting, and getting down to and up from the floor. Even if the reader read no further than this chapter, she would definitely learn some important information and exercise suggestions. Subsequent chapters provide information about how and why to train, introducing program participants to a number of approaches for warm-up, stretching, strengthening, and balance exercises. Although I liked the variety of photographs in this chapter, I found the section on strength or resistance training somewhat confusing. In the sample workout section, I had difficulty locating the trimester and fitness level at a quick glance. For some, this may be a bit daunting—another reason to read the book in its entirety first. At the end of the book are chapters and appendices on relaxation, postpartum exercise guidelines, nutrition, and preconception exercise guidelines. These provide some extra information or guideline considerations for those interested in these topics. Fit to Deliver is intended for all healthy pregnant or postpartum women and includes fitness guidelines and suggestions at beginner, intermediate, and advanced fitness levels. The book may be useful for physiotherapists who work with pregnant women and especially for health care professionals who are uncertain as to what type of information or guidelines to provide for their pregnant or postpartum clients. For some women, the exercise recommendations in this book may be too advanced. Those who already have sound knowledge of fitness training will benefit most from this informative book.