Pilates & Fitness for Pregnancy / Pre and Post Natal Pilates

Just because you are pregnant doesn't mean you have to stop exercising, (unless you have a specific medical condition and your doctor says you can't workout).

Working with your daily comfort level and previous physical condition you can continue staying in shape and keep your energy up throughout your pregnancy with Pilates.

Pilates is perfect for pregnant women because it is very adaptable and can be modified to accommodate a growing belly. It is also beneficial in helping women regain their abdominal strength and pre-pregnancy figure. Pilates is easy on the joints and helps keeps your abdominals, back, and pelvic floor muscles strong for a more comfortable pregnancy and delivery. Many women who do Pilates during their pregnancy report little or no back pain. And since Pilates targets your core area it is a no brainer that moms continue with their Pilates training after the baby is born to return to their pre-baby bodies.

Always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine. You will want to be conscious of your energy level and heart rate when working out. If you can’t talk during an exercise then you are working too hard and should stop. Other signs to take a break are feeling faint, dizziness, nausea, racing heart, shortness of breath, uterine contraction, bleeding or leaking fluid, and headache.

As your belly grows you will notice that your center of gravity will be off kilter. Be very careful with balancing movements and transitioning from one exercise to the next. Move slowly with smaller movements and be sure to always take your time.

Every woman experiences different things during their pregnancy so if something does not feel right to you, listen to your body and stop.

Pilates is a great way to stay connected with your ever changing body. Women who practice safe abdominal strengthening during pregnancy have less low back pain, less pelvic pain, better mobility, easier deliveries and faster recoveries. Unless consulted by your physician Pilates is the perfect way to stay in shape before, during and after pregnancy.

Here are just a few of the benefits of Pilates during pregnancy:

re-align your posture

tighten your tummy muscles

strengthen your pelvic floor

diminish back ache

challenge your balance

tone your arms, legs and bum

keep your cortisol (stress hormones) levels in check

eliminate sciatica

help reduce water retention

produce results

ease the labor

contribute to a faster recovery after your baby is born

give you the confidence to enjoy your body

Click below to read my articles on Pilates for Pregnancy:

The Diastasis Recti & Exercises to Avoid