The baby is kicking. And so is the mother

Mar. 10—Alexandria Granchelli has spent years showing people how a kickboxing workout can improve health.

So why should the fact that she is 8 months pregnant make any difference?

In Granchelli's case, it doesn't.

Some of her clients at 9Round Kickboxing Fitness on Transit Road in East Amherst were surprised that the impending arrival of Granchelli's fourth child has not slowed down her workout routine. But Granchelli said there is no reason for her to slow down.

"I am a full believer in the fact that working out helps combat fatigue," she said. "It just helps your body recover better."

In fact, engaging in moderate to intense workouts during a healthy pregnancy has several benefits, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' second edition of Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. These include increasing and maintaining cardiorespiratory fitness, reducing the risk of excessive weight gain and gestational diabetes and reducing symptoms of postpartum depression.

Although medical professionals stress that women should discuss with their doctor what level of exercise is safe for them, research also shows that exercise does not tend lead to complications for the mother or the baby.

Those like Granchelli who make a habit of vigorous-intensity activity can continue doing so as long as they remain careful and alert.

"Honestly, I just listen to my body," Granchelli said, adding that she uses the gym's heart rate monitor to keep herself from exerting too much strain. While she abstains from doing sit-ups and crunches, Granchelli has added core and pelvic floor exercises.

Granchelli, who grew up in Lockport and now lives in Clarence, has owned 9Round for seven years. She managed the gym for a year before buying it in 2017. Having a supportive husband, who often takes over manning the business when the need arises, has helped her find a perfect balance, she said.

At her gym, members can choose between boxing and kickboxing. The latter is a great cardio workout, she said, because it is low impact and requires people to use their brains. The 30-minute workout helps people relieve their stress and anxiety while mastering new techniques, she said.

"When they work out and leave, you just want them feeling better than they came in," she added.

A majority of Granchelli's clientele are parents with whom she has much in common. Having an exemplary exercise routine helps teach children about fitness, too, she said.

"We are able to really bond over being healthy," she said.

Joshna Singh, an Amherst resident, has been going to Granchelli's gym for nearly eight years.

"Allie has changed the way I think about exercise," said Singh, explaining how the personal connections Granchelli builds with them helps get rid of any discomfort newcomers might have.

"The job gives me life, but the members give me life, too, because they come in and I'm like, 'Oh, yeah, I'm not the only one to deal with that,'" Granchelli said.

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