Prenatal Pilates sessions are generally focused on the abdominals, back and pelvic floor muscles, which are vital when it comes to childbirth. We will also focus on balance, strength and coordination throughout each bespoke session to ensure clients are feeling strong and mentally prepared for birth.
Pilates aims to keep the upper and lower body alongside the abdominal section strong and connected to the core in order to reduce pregnancy related aches and pains and to also aim to speed up recovery post birth.
BETTER LABOUR Whether you are planning a natural birth or C-section prenatal wellness sessions can be extremely beneficial. Prenatal Pilates works on mobility rather than flexibility. During pregnancy the hormone Relaxin is released in order for the hips to expand creating room for the baby to grow, but this also causes an increased level of flexibility throughout the pregnancy which can lead to a greater risk of injury due to loose joints and ligaments if not managed corrected! Now is not the time to do the splits!! Through carefully managed sessions Pilates can help you cope better with labour and childbirth because it teaches you how to activate and strengthen key muscles alongside learning how to breathe effectively which can help with the stress and discomfort of contractions.
BOOST YOUR ENERGY LEVELS Saying active during your pregnancy will also help to boost your immune system and circulation, and provide the energy levels needed to enjoy your pregnancy and feel better prepared for birth. Once your baby has safely arrived, you can also use your Pilates sessions as ‘me time’, giving you breathing space and bursts of the all important endorphins!
FUTURE-PROOF YOUR BODY Investing in Pilates today will put you on a path for a healthier future. Pilates works like WD40, it literally oils your joints, slowing down the natural ageing process by improving core strength, muscle tone, joint mobility, balance and posture. Children are demanding both physically and mentally but you can keep one step ahead in body and mind.
Postnatal
It is extremely important to wait for medial clearance to commence exercise after birth which will be given by your GP/Medical Specialist.
LOVE YOUR CORE After pregnancy and giving birth, the abdominal muscles have been stretched to their maximum capacity and are left soft and lax. It can take a long time to stretch the abdominal muscles during pregnancy but after giving birth, there is a sudden release of the uterine stretch on the abdominal muscles. All those changes of the early post labour period have a great effect on movement. Postnatal Pilates exercise programs target compromised ability for the muscles to produce adequate tension as well as providing support of the pelvis and the abdominal wall.
Strengthening your stomach and gluteal muscles overall helps with a multitude of issues! - Reduces back pain - Strengthen your pelvic floor - Control your breathing - Improve balance - Maintain healthy weight - Speed up recovery post-natally
"I have spent many years specialising with pre/post natal clients across many mediums of exercise in order to discover the most effective and enjoyable method of staying active and strong during the most important time in a woman's life. I have been lucky enough to have fantastic clients who I have worked with throughout multiple pregnancies!" Nadine McCann