Many things have changed in sports and fitness for women in recent years.

They don't just want to lose weight; they also want to stay in shape or get into shape. Having a pleasing body shape is more important to them than simply having a slim figure, which often lacks definition. Crossfit is one of the best methods to achieve this goal.

The trend originated in the USA and has spread to Europe in recent years, with many women becoming enthusiastic Crossfit participants. This approach combines weightlifting with endurance and specific exercises, allowing individuals to not only replace fat with muscle but also achieve a sculpted physique. It also enhances overall conditioning and improves flexibility.

Weightlifting is no longer exclusively a men's sport.

For many years, it was primarily men who lifted heavy weights and built muscles. However, that trend fell out of fashion, and men started to prefer exercising on various gym machines. However, in recent years, weightlifting has experienced a revival. Interestingly, more women than men are now lifting weights. In 2018, even more women than men participated in championships.

In 2016, just over 30 percent of participants in weightlifting championships were women. Now, there are 20 percent more. However, many of these women engage in weightlifting as a hobby rather than a strenuous "must-do" sport, and this is where CrossFit comes into play. Because CrossFit has changed everything once again.

More and more pregnant female athletes

Especially on Instagram, more and more pregnant women are demonstrating that exercising during pregnancy is not a problem. They showcase themselves in strength training and CrossFit, and receive predominantly positive comments for it. No matter how big their belly is, they continue training seemingly without any issues.

Under the hashtag "#pregnantathlete," which translates to "pregnant athlete," there are currently more than 10,000 pictures and videos of pregnant women diligently lifting weights and giving their followers insight into their training routine. Of course, these women not only receive positive comments; many women worry about the unborn children. Doesn't the training harm them?

Not quite realistic

However, experts don't believe that everything is as perfect as it appears in the pictures and training videos. It's important to remember that influencers, in particular, have a significant influence on others, and many women quickly start comparing themselves to them. Those who don't feel like exercising now or prefer to take it easy may end up feeling guilty.

Most importantly, it's believed that Instagram athletes who appear at competitions just a few weeks after giving birth are overexerting themselves. They probably have more issues than it seems. But no one talks about that; instead, they're admired for how fit these women are. The reality of their situation remains undisclosed.

One should never overestimate oneself.

A well-known CrossFit athlete mentioned that she started during her first pregnancy and ended up overestimating herself. She noticed during training what pregnancy does to the body, as she puts it. There are many changes. Not only does the hormonal balance get completely disrupted, but the muscles also change.

So, she realized that not everything she was doing in training was right and also noticed that not everything was beneficial for her. Therefore, she did things differently in her subsequent pregnancy. That's the crucial point. Listening to your body and admitting when it's too much. Who are we really trying to prove something to? What is truly important?

The big question: Lifting weights, yes or no?

So, many wonder, should pregnant women still lift weights and train hard? She mentions that especially men approached her during her training and asked if it wasn't too much, if it was still okay to lift weights at all? Somehow cute that the men were concerned about it.

She responded that she wasn't training at full capacity and that she knows exactly what she and her body can handle. Now, let's ask you, what do you think when you see a visibly pregnant woman lifting weights and looking strained? Is that okay for you, or do you have concerns?

What do medical professionals say about this?

Dr. Christian Albring, President of the Professional Association of Gynecologists, says that pregnant women should avoid emphasizing abdominal muscle training. Pregnant women risk putting too much strain on the connective tissue between the abdominal muscles. This can lead to overstretching or even tearing of the tissue, something that should be avoided at all costs.

As with everything, a balanced approach is key here. There's nothing wrong with moderate strength training. A comfortably dosed exercise routine is even beneficial for flexibility, can help prevent excessive weight gain, and strengthens the lower back muscles. But it should be done in moderation and never overdone! Take breaks as soon as you feel it's becoming too strenuous.

Not moving too little during pregnancy

Many women are hesitant to engage in any form of exercise when they are pregnant. They fear they might do something wrong. Unfortunately, it's often obstetricians who advise against exercise because they are still not well-informed enough. Of course, this doesn't apply to all. Many recommend gentle exercise, especially during pregnancy.

But unfortunately, the notion still persists that pregnant women should be particularly cautious, as if pregnancy were an illness. This leads to many pregnant women simply not moving enough. This isn't good either. They should stay in shape, especially maintaining their stamina. Giving birth requires a lot of energy and endurance.

Getting accurate information is still the best option

There's the "Sport and Pregnancy" working group. Here, sports physicians, gynecologists, physiotherapists, and psychologists provide advice on all aspects of sports and pregnancy. This is where you should turn if you can't find good answers to questions about how much exercise is okay during pregnancy.

The team of the working group has now advised more than 3,000 women, and interest in this topic is steadily growing. In general, we advise thoroughly researching the topic. Influencers should never be role models; instead, rely on your own intuition and consult experts who are truly knowledgeable about the subject. Our conclusion: No exercise is definitely the wrong approach, and too much is also not advisable. Finding a good balance is optimal.