Pilates

Is it a good idea to do Pilates while you're pregnant? Sorry to be a bit frustrating but the simple answer lies with you individually. Some women can exercise right through one pregnancy yet because of morning sickness or other complications find it more difficult in others, and vice versa. There is no hard and fast rule, and you're certainly not "not normal" if you can't. Pilates, like all moderate and appropriate exercise during preganancy can in fact (when properly supervised) form an excellent part of the pre-natal preparations.

Pilates exercises have a dynamic range which allows for much appreciated movement (no static pretzel yoga moves) while it's gentle pacing allows for any necessary adjustments for comfort on the part of the mum-to-be. Pilates potential contribution alone to helping build back muscles strength thereby heading off potential back troubles (a key complaint later in the pregnancy) should guarantee it a place on you list of potential routines to consider. The regular benefits of the Pilates method - improved balance, building core strength, stamina and endurance - are all the more potentially useful for the pregnant woman. This can prove especially true during labour and delivery.

But please, some words of caution: Pilates may not be the ideal pregnancy fitness choice for you. As with all exercise routines, please start out slow. If you're not a Pilates guru already then go easy and start as a humble beginner. There are DVDs that cater specifically for the pregnant woman, but you should strongly consider going to some classes to get a grip on a real routine. A quiet word with the intructor could yeild valuable variations on the movements that would better suit your condition. It's also important to stay clear of the supine positions after the second trimester and be careful of overworking your abs. You potentially run the risk of cutting off oxygen to the baby by lying on your back, and Diastasis (the seperation of the abs) can occur later in pregnancy and Pilates may worsen the condition if not adapted appropriately. Please use you common sense and stop if something feels strange, and when in doubt, ask your physician.

Pilates |