When should I start Pilates?

Pilates exercise can be started at any stage of your life.  In the ideal world we would start before becoming pregnant so that we learn to know our bodies and muscles in preparation for pregnancy.  It is not unusual however for women to feel the need to start a new form of exercise in pregnancy for general well-being and management of some of the aches and pains that can occur in some women during pregnancy.  The most important thing is to attend a class with assessment from a trained physiotherapist to guide you at this highly special and important time of life.

Is it safe to do Pilates?

Pilates is a safe form of exercise. It requires high levels of concentration and awareness rather than speed and impact.  However there are enormous changes going on in your body during pregnancy. Subsequently your exercise will certainly be modified in intensity and level of difficulty. Remember also, different people will exercise at different levels depending on previous fitness levels.

How will I benefit from doing Pilates?

Pilates exercise targets pelvic floor, lower abdominal and back muscles.  Pilates teaches you to coordinate these muscles in harmony with normal breathing patterns and good posture is a natural result of pilates exercise.   During pregnancy, our tummy muscles are compromised as the baby grows, the pelvic floor is stressed by the weight of the baby and low backs can be sore from the posture changes of pregnancy.  Pilates works all the muscles most affected by pregnancy to optimize well-being at this exciting life stage.

Can I get my Tummy muscles (core muscles) back?

Yes you can!!  Simple exercises do make a difference and your physiotherapist will assess your muscles after the birth of the baby and give you an appropriate program.  One tummy muscle in particular (it’s the “six-pack” muscle whose proper name is “rectus abdominis“ ) actually separates to allow the expansion of the tummy.  It is vital to have this assessed to ensure appropriate exercise for full recovery.

Contact us now for more information or to book for your Pilates for Pregnancy Program.