Stay Fit with Pilates during Pregnancy

Pregnancy Pilates Fitness Classes, Centurion

You’ve shared the news with friends and family, and you’re incredibly excited about your pregnancy!

Whether or not you’ve maintained a physically active lifestyle up until now, you have new motivation to ensure that your body stays as healthy as can be.

So, what are your options in terms of safe exercise during pregnancy?  Along with swimming, walking and low-impact aerobics, Pilates is one of the best recommended activities that you can take part in throughout your whole pregnancy, as long as your doctor has given you the go-ahead.

Is Pilates safe to do when you’re pregnant?

While Pilates is safe and beneficial for pregnancy, it’s important to remember that no two bodies are alike.

Before starting a Pilates class, here are 2 things you need to do:

1. Get clearance from your doctor
   Exercise during pregnancy may be harmful if you suffer from medical problems or pregnancy-related conditions. Your doctor will advise of any risks or activities to avoid.
2. Notify your instructor that you are pregnant
   Dedicated Pregnancy Pilates classes differ from regular Pilates Group classes. A Pilates instructor specialising in pregnancy classes will know which exercises are best to do, and which to avoid. Pregnancy Pilates sessions are designed specifically for the changing needs of your body during each trimester of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy and Back Pain

As your baby grows, your posture changes and more pressure is placed on the spine. This affects the lower back, and many women experience back pain during pregnancy.

Pilates exercises and stretches are highly effective in reducing back pain, and many women who have done Pilates during their pregnancy have reported little or no back pain.

During pregnancy, the body naturally produces relaxin, which causes ligaments to become looser in preparation for both the growing baby and childbirth. By maintaining a strong core, injuries and discomfort can be prevented.

Pregnancy and Core Strength

As you may have already guessed, certain abdominal exercises will become more challenging, and in fact need to be avoided during pregnancy.

So, how can we ensure that we maintain a strong core during pregnancy?

It’s important to remember that “the core” does not only consist of the abdominals or “6-pack”, but rather extends through to the muscles around the spine, in the back, lower abdominals, and the pelvic floor. Pilates focuses on strengthening all of these core muscles, which in turn support the spine.

Prenatal Pilates classes will include core strengthening exercises that are safe to perform during pregnancy.

Where can I do Pilates Pregnancy classes?

Private and Group Prenatal Pilates classes are available at Do! Pilates, subject to schedule availability. The Pilates studio is based in central Centurion. Remember to first get clearance from your doctor, then book your first class with us today!