Want a Fit Pregnancy - Do Pilates!

Did you know that Pilates is one of the best exercises to do both during and after pregnancy?

Pilates is gentle and effective making it an ideal workout for while you're pregnant. Want to get back in shape after baby arrives? Yep, Pilates has got your back there too!! I loved doing Pilates with both my pregnancies and definitely feel that it helped me stay strong and healthy!

So why is Pilates so great for pregnancy?

Well, one of the main reasons is that Pilates focuses on building core strength. If your abdominals, back, and pelvic floor/Kegel muscles are toned, they will support a more comfortable pregnancy and delivery.

Pilates is also very adaptable

If you are already familiar with Pilates then you can modify most exercises as your body and abilities change. These modifications help you keep the intent of the exercise, but adjust the form to work for your body. Whether you're new to Pilates or have already discovered it, consider taking a specific pre or post natal class. Many Pilates instructors and studios offer specific pre and post natal courses.

Pilates can also be highly beneficial for you and your baby emotionally as well as physically.

Some other known benefits of practicing Pilates during and after pregnancy include:

• A stronger pelvic floor - which will help with delivery and those unfortunate pee leakages!

• Improving your flexibility and coordination.

• Learning to control your breath which can help you focus during labor.

• Preventing varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and backaches.

• Improving your self-esteem - just knowing you are doing something positive and practicing a little self-care can do wonders for how you feel!

• Toning your body - there are no quick fixes to getting back your pre-pregnancy shape. But working out gently and effectively during and after pregnancy will definitely speed things up a little!

• Relaxation - the focus on breath and gentle movement in Pilates is definitely relaxing! Taking time out of your day to focus on you helps promote well-being. Something that is so need during this time!

• Improving your sleep and preventing insomnia - ok so here's the thing - as most of you already know you don't get much sleep when you have a baby. But when you do manage to get some shut eye it needs to be quality sleep.

Finally, whenever you are thinking about starting a new exercise program you should consult your doctor. This is especially important when you are pregnant. If you already are aware of any of these symptoms then Pilates, unfortunately, is not for you:

• High blood pressure.

• Premature rupture of membranes.

• When there’s a delay in intrauterine growth.

• In women with preeclampsia.

• If the mother-to-be has a high-risk pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a beautiful experience and with regular Pilates your body will be ready for the journey!