reFORM offers specialized prenatal Pilates training. We have many years’ experience working with expectant parents. Prenatal Pilates isn’t all that different from classical Pilates, and Pilates is relatively safe way to stay fit through the changes of pregnancy.
Aspects of pregnancy that we keep in mind when working with Pilates and Gyrotonic® clients include:
- Increased laxity in the joints. Maintaining a balance of strength and flexibility is key!
- Difficulty bending forward and curling the spine. That baby sure gets in the way…
- Lying face down usually becomes impossible.
- Lying on your back will usually require modification later in pregnancy.
We often use props for support, so even lying face down can be done longer than you might think. We can modify some exercises to be done seated, kneeling or standing. Many of our pregnant clients also try Gyrotonic® exercise, as many of the exercises are performed upright, and they are particularly good for conditioning the joints of the pelvis.
Prenatal Pilates and Gyrotonic® can help prevent and treat many of the common physical discomforts that women experience during pregnancy. Lower back, pelvic and hip pain all respond well to Pilates and Gyrotonic training. They help keep the body strong and balanced as the center of gravity shifts, so the neck and shoulders tend not to hold as much tension.
Prenatal Pilates at reFORM is fun. We love being part of this journey, helping our clients stay confident as their bodies change.
Some women feel comfortable performing advanced Pilates exercises right up to delivery. Others start modifying early in pregnancy, as they notice that moving certain ways doesn’t feel right. You know your body best.
Postnatal Pilates is an awesome way to reconnect the abdominals and strengthen your whole body after pregnancy. It’s also an antidote to the stress and body imbalances that new moms face- holding a baby and nursing are hard work!
Congratulations to the reFORM staff’s newest moms- Ashley and Andrea. They’re a testament to how fit you can stay during pregnancy, and how to bounce back.