Key muscle groups which take on extra load during pregnancy and labour are the abdominal, back and pelvic muscles.   Hormonal changes mean tendons and ligaments don’t offer the same support to your joints.   All of this can result in back, shoulder and pelvic pain, increased feelings of tiredness and possibly poor joint stability.

Pilates is an excellent form of exercise before, during and after pregnancy to prevent these problems arising.  The movements are gentle,  controlled and low impact.  The focus is on posture, balance, muscle strengthening and breathing techniques.  The exercises can be easily adapted to accommodate your body’s changing abilities through each trimester.  And, of course,  post natal Pilates is a great way to get your body back in shape after your baby is born!

What can Pilates do for you?

Tones your pelvic floor muscles

During the nine months of pregnancy there is an increasing load on your pelvic floor.  By actively strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, Pilates can help to prevent the stress incontinence that many women suffer during and after pregnancy.  Strong pelvic floor muscles are also believed to help speed up the second stage of delivery and labour by making contractions more efficient.

Increases your core stablility and improves your posture

Pilates exercises tone and strengthen the deep muscles of the abdominal wall and back which help to stabilise the spine.  This can alleviate back ache, improve your posture and realigns the spine helping you to cope with a changing centre of gravity as the baby grows.

Teaches you relaxation and body awareness

Pilates focuses on effective breathing techniques which enhance blood circulation and promote relaxation.  This can be of great benefit in the labour room and beyond.

Greater sense of wellbeing

Pilates exercise are low impact, adaptable throughout pregnancy and focus on working the whole body.   You will feel energised and exercised without feeling exhausted.

Regain your pre-pregnancy figure

If you practice Pilates regularly you will have the foundations of a strong core and long lean muscles which can be built on once your baby is born.  Most women who do Pilates on a regular basis find that they return to fitness much more quickly than women who do not.