Pilates during pregnancy

Many women want to continue to exercise during pregnancy, but are concerned that physical exertion could cause harm to their unborn baby and indeed themselves. Pilates is a gentle low impact form of exercise and as such it is considered one of the best forms of exercise both during and after pregnancy. One the top reasons Pilates and pregnancy go together so well is that Pilates is great at building core strength – focusing on strengthening on your abdominals, back and pelvic floor, allowing for an easier pregnancy, delivery and recovery. Pilates is also famous for helping new mums get their figures back after baby is born!

Pilates helps maintain and improve the condition of both your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles which often become weak during pregnancy. It is not only a safe form of exercise while pregnant, it can be hugely beneficial too. Pilates combines flexibility and strength training with body awareness, breathing and relaxation. Exercises can be adapted at each stage of pregnancy to allow for gentler or more focused exercise and will not place strain on the joints or back. In late pregnancy, we focus your attention on exercises that prepare you for the birth and exercises which will encourage relaxation.

Doctors and midwifes firmly support continuing exercise during a healthy pregnancy. Statistically, active women are better able to cope with labour, and regain their pre-pregnant figures more quickly.

Resuming Pilates after childbirth

Women can generally return to Pilates four to six weeks after delivery, or eight to twelve weeks after a Caesarean section. Your doctor will advise you on when your body is ready.

Many mums find it difficult to tone the tummy after giving birth - Pilates will help your body regain its shape and tone and re-strengthen muscles that have been weakened during your pregnancy. Exercises can be adapted to individual needs, so a safe workout can be developed to target particular muscle groups.

Power of Pilates ensures the numbers in the class are small enough to allow for individual attention and encourage you to focus on technique before moving on to more challenging exercises.