Pilates in pregnancy is an ideal exercise programme to follow. It has many benefits for the expectant mother and helps her to maintain good posture throughout her pregnancy; alleviates aches and pains and promotes body awareness. It also helps to prepare for labour and aids post natal recovery.

Many women throughout pregnancy suffer from back pain and other minor aches and pains. By practicing Pilates on a regular basis during pregnancy these pains can be significantly reduced or avoided altogether by focusing on posture, muscular strength and balance.

..............................................................................................................

Benefits of practicing Pilates during and after pregnancy:-

· Promotes good posture therefore less strain on joints.

· Strengthens pelvic floor muscles, improving pelvic floor control
helping support the added weight of the baby.

· Promotes understanding of relaxing pelvic floor assisting
mother during labour.

· Strengthens abdominals to provide support for the growing
uterus and your growing baby.

· Strengthens abdominals to decrease the likelihood of severe separation and helps abdominals to realign quicker after pregnancy.

· Reduces stress and fatigue, aids relaxation and promotes well-being

· Improves balance

· Aids breathing during labour

· Helps to prevent varicose veins and leg cramps by improving circulation

· Speeds up the recovery process after birth

..............................................................................................................

Pilates during pregnancy can be done in a group or on a one-to-one basis and exercises are modified at different stages of pregnancy.

..............................................................................................................