Postnatal Pilates

Pilates is a great way to get back into exercise after having a baby. You can start at 6 weeks (12 weeks if you have had a caesarian). You should start gently and build up your level of exercise within the class as you become able. Pilates focuses on the core muscles so will help with pelvic floor weakness and improving deep abdominal control which should help to flatten the tummy and support the back.

It is important to keep the exercises comfortable and not to force any of the stretches. Relaxin, the hormone that softens the ligaments in pregnancy can stay in the system for many months after giving birth.

Don’t rush to increase the level of your exercises. There is a technique to be learnt with Pilates and spending time to understand how your body is working and ensuring the deep muscles are strong enough before you start to challenge the muscles more is important so that you strengthen the muscles correctly to help develop abdominals that draw flat rather than encouraging them to brace and dome.

We are not offering a specific postnatal class at present. A beginners class would be the best class to start in after having a baby, after half a term you may well feel ready to progress to a general level class.

Pilates in Pregnancy

If you already used to exercising then Pilates is a great way to maintain your strength and suppleness during pregnancy. You can also use it as a way of stepping down the intensity of your usual exercise program. As the body changes shape during pregnancy and the hormones alter many women experience back or pelvic pain. Pilates works the muscles that support the back and pelvis. Coming to a Pilates class can help you focus on your body, with gentle stretches and strength exercises and elements of relaxation to help you keep yourself fit for pregnancy and fit for birth.

If you are not used to exercising or struggling to exercise due to back or pelvic pain then an individual Pilates session can design you a short set of exercises designed specifically for your condition that you can continue at home.

We are not offering a specific pregnancy class at present. Some of the physiotherapists have more experience than others with working with pregnant ladies, so if you would like to join a class please contact us and we can discuss the best class to join.