Many women find Pilates to be one of best exercises for both during and after their pregnancy. One of the top reasons Pilates and pregnancy go together so well is that Pilates is great at building core strength. Your stomach and pelvic floor muscles are put under increasing strain as your baby grows. At the same time, the hormone relaxin is making the tough tissues that connect your bones (ligaments) more pliable. Your ligaments are likely to stretch more than usual and if you overload them you may injure yourself.

Stretched and weakened stomach muscles can effect your back and pelvis, causing pain. Weakened pelvic floor muscles may also affect your ability to control your bladder causing you to leak small amounts of urine when you cough or sneeze. Pilates exercises activate the deepest layer of your tummy muscles and your pelvic floor muscles, necessary for stabilising your back and pelvis and for controlling your bladder. Many Pilates exercises are performed on your hands and knees, which is an ideal position for pregnancy. Adopting this position can take some of the strain off your back and pelvis and towards the end of your pregnancy may help to get your baby into the right position for birth. If your abdominals, back, and pelvic floor muscles are strong, they will help to support you back and pelvis and control your bladder allowing for a more comfortable pregnancy and delivery.

Pilates is also famous for helping new mums get their figures back after baby is born!

Chevron Island Physio offers classes for both pre and post natal women as well as ‘mums and bubs’ Pilates sessions which allow you to bring your little one along with you while you exercise. These classes help expecting mothers in their first, second and third trimesters to develop awareness of their pelvic floor and strengthen and support their lower back. The classes also focus on shoulder stability and upper extremity strength, as well as general fitness and flexibility.
You will need clearance from your Doctor prior to commencing these classes. We also ask that you book in for an Initial Pregnancy Pilates consultation with one of our Physiotherapists prior to attending any classes. Call 5504 7000 to find out more.