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 Early in her pregnancy, AXIS Client Rose L. decided to seek the advice of a personal trainer. As a busy event producer at an Internet company, Rose knew her schedule would require a structured workout routine that would help her remain strong and active throughout her pregnancy. Most importantly, she wanted to learn what types of exercises she should be doing to encourage a healthy pregnancy.
“I was concerned about exacerbating chronic neck and back injuries as I gained the pregnancy weight and my body changed over the nine months,” she says.
Fortunately, Rose is in good hands with Master Trainer Lauren Shroyer. In addition to her education and previous experience with pregnant clients, Lauren enjoyed the benefits of exercise during her own pregnancy last year. As well, her favorite challenge is working with clients with preexisting injuries.
“It was important Rose continue to build strength,” Lauren explains. “Every day she’s using the muscles in her back, abs, and glutes to carry the baby.”
In addition to strength training, Rose enjoys at least 15 minutes of stretching in every workout. It gives immediate relief to the tightness in her hips and lower back, and it is also an important preparation for the delivery room.
“When the time comes, Rose’s strength and flexibility will be a huge asset to her comfort and stamina. Delivering a baby is one hard workout!” Lauren says.
So far, the workouts have been a huge help and Rose is happy with the results.
“I’m amazed at how little pain I’ve had in my neck and back,” Rose says. “Lauren is a great trainer and so knowledgeable about body kinetics. She has also given me a lot of advice on what to expect as the pregnancy evolves.”
Outside of her biweekly sessions with Lauren, Rose is swimming, walking the family dog with her husband, taking yoga classes and stretching regularly.
“I feel this preparation will help during the delivery and with the physical challenges of being a new
mom."
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Submitted by Trish W., an AXIS Client since February 2004.
 "I was diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome, a pre-diabetic condition, in 1999 when I went through a research study on the subject at Stanford Medical Center. I tried to address it by walking and watching what I ate, but it wasn't enough. My condition worsened each year -- high triglycerides, high blood pressure, and a growing "apple shaped" waistline. A family history of cardiovascular disease didn't help my prognosis.
In early 2004 I decided to get serious about improving my health, hoping it wasn't too late. I joined another Stanford research study where I got intensive nutrition counseling and lots of free lab work! I also got permission to add an intensive exercise component to my program.
I took my problem to Axis and they matched me with master trainer Jeff Kazmucha, who loves a challenge. I was in pretty bad shape when I started, easily exhausted, no muscle tone, and stressed out. But I REALLY wanted to reverse my insulin resistance and was willing to work hard. Jeff developed a program that would safely accomplish that goal.
Nine months later I had completely reversed my severe insulin resistance back to normal levels, cut my triglycerides in half, and significantly raised my HDL. I lost my excess abdominal fat and gained strong and defined muscles. My endocrinologist is impressed with the impact exercise training with Jeff has had on my health.
Over two years later and I'm still at it. My increased energy gives me an edge professionally. But in addition to exercising for health, I now exercise for the fun and sense of accomplishment. In the past year I've completed a high ropes challenge course with my husband, gone indoor rock climbing with my 20 something sons, spent a week at an exercise camp, and taken tap dance classes. I'm told I look like a different person, and I know I feel like one. From overweight and almost diabetic to fit and athletic, in my mid-50s? Priceless."
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