Antenatal and Postnatal Pilates

Why Pilates?

Pilates is a great exercise method to support the postural changes during pregnancy and after. Most people are aware of the structural changes in the body as the mother and baby grow, but there are also hormonal and physiological changes and laxity in the joints. All these need to be taken into consideration whilst pregnant.
Making exercise safe, enjoyable and the feeling of being in good hands is vital, when there is often a sense of “not knowing,” what one can and cannot do.

Pre – conceptual care means that you are already ahead of the game, you are preparing and strengthening the areas that need to be strong before you become pregnant including the pelvic floor, core and postural muscles, buttocks, legs and back. It’s about preparing and doing the ground work, allowing for an easier transition from pre- conceptual care into the first trimester. It is not always possible to start Pilates during the first trimester. (Please contact Sophy for more specific information).

1. Ante-natal Pilates aims to:

• help towards a positive and healthy pregnancy.
• strengthen the muscles that need to support the body as the baby grows.
• aid postural awareness, create stability and promote good functional movement (from lying to standing safely).
• increase stamina & flexibility appropriately.
• release tension as the weight of the baby becomes more of a strain on the shoulders and lower back.
• create a relaxing environment for the mother and baby
• help reduce back pain, sciatica, carpal tunnel and leg cramps.
• encourage and support the mother in her choice of birth.

      2. Post-natal Pilates aims to:

• to help increase energy levels.
• to create stability and strength in the body in a functional form.
• to aid the return of the pre-pregnant body.
• to aid circulation in the pelvic region, to tone the core abdominals using pelvic floor exercises and abdominal hollowing.
• do a rectus abdominus check, making sure the abdominals are coming back together, using exercises to aid that.
• build the exercises gradually and safely to get the most out of the exercise whilst you are in the class and at home with baby.
• to help release the stress and tension of life with the new baby.
• to aid positive postural change.

What they said
 “When I became pregnant with my second child I decided to continue practising Pilates.  Sophy provided wonderful support and I trusted her throughout. She was also clued up as to when it was no longer appropriate to do certain moves. She varied routines by introducing the Swiss Ball which was great. I had no back pain throughout this pregnancy. Needless to say I truly believe it helped me deliver my second child safely. I even had a natural birth which was amazing having considered my history. “