Gimnasia para embarazadas (Salud y Vida) (Spanish Edition)

First published in Germany, this book features a group of simple exercises that will strengthen the body and prepare a woman for childbirth. The author, a German midwife and childbirth educator, begins by explaining the bodily changes that occur during pregnancy and how exercise helps to prepare women for labor and delivery. She then offers a series of exercises tailored for the new center of gravity and looser ligaments and muscles of the pregnant woman. These exercises include stretches, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques, as well as massage techniques that in some cases require a partner and an exercise ball or a chair. For ease of use, the book has three color-coded sections—total energy, wellness and agility, and fitness and relaxation—and color photographs and clear instructions help readers perform the movements correctly. An explanation about the purpose and the effects of the exercises appears in sidebars. A very useful book for pregnant women; recommended for public and consumer health libraries serving with pregnancy and childbirth collections.—Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L., CA