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I've officially hit the second trimester and have started exploring the Peloton prenatal program! I've been mixing the workouts into my regular workout routine, and so far have really been enjoying them.
In this post I'll go over the 2 different programs, my experience and how I've been adding them into my workout routine.
As always, check with your doctor before starting any new workout programs - especially while pregnant.
What Is Peloton Prenatal Program?
There's technically 2 Peloton prenatal programs :
- Pre & Postnatal Yoga: a collection of 39 yoga classes taught by Kristin McGee and Anna Greenberg. The classes range in difficulty from beginner to advance, and there are also classes specifically for each trimester.
- Robin's Prenatal Class Series: a collection of 10 classes taught by Robin Arzon ranging from strength (core, upper body, full body) to rides. There's even a HIIT ride!
Related Post: How I Trained with Peloton in My First Trimester
Peloton Prental Yoga Review
Let me start off and be the first to say I'm not good at yoga. In fact, up until about a year ago I'd do everything to avoid it. I'm a runner and over the years have become extremely stiff and uncordinated (ok, maybe I've always been this way) so to me yoga is basically torture.
But I know it's good for me and so I'm trying to add it into my workouts at least once a week, or as the Hardcore on the Floor calendar calls for them.
The first class I tried was a beginner 20 minute class and I have to say even though it's listed as beginner, it was tough to keep up. The flows were fast to me and half the time I'd end up just watching what I was supposed to do and try to recreate some of the moves.
I wish I could say I was getting better at it but I'm still struggling.
I've heard that slow flow yoga might be better for true beginner-beginners like me so I'm going to try to use those instead, and modify as needed and then maybe try the prenatal yoga classes again.
Robin's Prenatal Program Review
Unlike the prenatal yoga, I absolutely LOVE Robin's program. Actually I'm not really sure I can call it a program since it's only 10 workouts, but either way these classes are amazing.
Robin's perspective on pregnancy is something that I needed. In each class she reminds us not to focus on what we can't do, but instead focus on what we can do. I'm so guilty of fixating on my limitations from pregnancy and thinking of all the things I can't do, or how I need to modify, so hearing this from Robin makes me feel so good and powerful.
I also love that she teaches you modifications so you can ultimately do almost every regular Peloton class, just with modifications.
I especially like Robin's prenatal core classes (and really wish there were more!). The classes focus on breathing and strengthening your pelvic floor - which isn't as sexy or fun as traditional core classes, but they're still extremely important things to learn and focus on.
Where to Find Peloton Prenatal Classes
Currently there are 2 ways to find the prenatal classes:
- Click on the "Collections" tab on the digital app (or on the bike or tread) and scroll down to the collection you want. The Yoga programs and Robin's are under 2 different collections.
- When you're searching for classes, select on the "filters". There will be a drop down under "Class Type" where you can select prenatal.
How I Use the Prenatal Classes in My Training
This trimester I've been adding the prenatal courses into the Hardcore on the Floor calendar. Generally, I'll swap out all the core workouts for prenatal core workouts, and then throughout the week I'll swap 1-2 of the regular strength classes for a prenatal one.
My workout calendar looks like:
- Monday: 30 Minute Cardio (Bike or Power Walk), Glutes and Legs Workout, Stretch
- Tuesday: 30 Minute Cardio (Bike or Power Walk), Chest & Back Workout, Arms & Shoulders Workout, Stretch
- Wednesday: 30 Minute Cardio, 30-45 Min Full Body Strength, Stretch
- Thursday: 30 Min Low Impact Cardio, Yoga
- Friday: 30 Min Cardio, Glutes & Legs, Stretch
- Saturday: 30 Min Cardio, Arms & Shoulders Strength, Stretch
- Sunday: Active Recovery Day - aka chasing my toddler around
For cardio, I've really been into Peloton power walks now that it's starting to warm up a bit.
Related Post: How I workout with Peloton during my second trimester
Conclusion
Overall I really like the Peloton prenatal classes. I wish there were more classes labeled as prenatal by Robin, but the classes that are currently available do a great job at showing modifications that you can apply to the regular classes.
Above everything else, Robin's approach to pregnancy is so refreshing and something I really needed to hear. It's so encouraging to see another athlete going through pregnancy, her perspective and honestly, her encouragement.
With my first pregnancy I was so quick to scale down and modify, even when in reality I didn't need it at the time. Robin's given me the confidence to (safely) continue working out at my current levels as long as my body can handle it.
Now that I'm in the second trimester and the baby bump's made an appearance I've started modifying, but not nearly as much as I did my first pregnancy. I'm hoping I can continue working out throughout my pregnancy and continue doing the prenatal classes!
Related Post: Why I'm Counting Macros with Stronger U While Pregnant
[…] tell if a workout will be pregnancy-safe unless it's specifically marked as prenatal (Robin has a whole prenatal program)! When I get bored of the prenatal classes or what to try something new I'll use this process to […]