First of all, what a very cute way to describe pre & post natal Pilates as 'Bump' Pilates. We here at Premium Pilates Studio are trained as Pre & Post Natal Pilates Instructors and have trained several amazing women pre and post their pregnancies. We have seen them gain added core strength, greater pelvic floor control and more confidence about the physical changes that are happening to their bodies. Here are a few reasons why we think all pre & post natal women should be practising Pilates:
1. It is a wonderful alternative exercise regime for women, as pre and post pregnancy women need to cease with high cardiovascular and high impact exercise and focus on low to moderate impact exercises. Pilates is a low impact form of exercise, as it does not put stress on the joints of the body. This exercise regime is a perfect marriage with pregnancy, as Pilates focuses on strengthening the exact muscles that are needed to deliver a baby; the pelvic floor and the core (the lower abdominals and stabilising back muscles). Pilates will assist in getting your body ready for an easier delivery as it keeps you fit throughout pregnancy by keeping the blood flowing around the body and keeping energy levels up. Post pregnancy, Pilates is also wonderful as it helps you to restrengthen the muscles that may have been loosened or affected during the birth.
2. Lowers stress levels. We can only imagine that with your body undergoing constant physical changes whilst pregnant stress starts to take its toll on the body and the mind. Doing specific Pilates exercises designed for the pre and post natal woman will reduce your stress levels, as your body will become fitter, you will feel more rested through exercise and lastly due to the mind-body connection that Pilates achieves, by combining movement with breath.
3. Assistance in returning to a healthy weight range after pregnancy. By exercising during your pregnancy you will keep the accumulation of fat at bay that can be put on during this time. Not gaining more than a healthy pregnancy weight is very important for the health of your unborn baby as well as yourself. Exercising regularly by attending Pilates classes will keep your body fit, your mind sharp and will result in you making healthier food choices, thereby reducing your risk of being diagnosed with gestational diabetes.
4. Better sleep! Fit individuals have been shown to have better sleep patterns as they have more slow wave sleep. Getting a good night's sleep is extremely important as a pregnant woman and even more so after childbirth. Pilates focuses on controlled breathing and on exercises that promote better circulation, hence your body will feel more relaxed and ready for a good night's rest.
5. Lastly, Pilates can reduce lower back pain that many pregnant women experience. As the baby bump grows, so does the lordosis or exaggerated arch in a women's lower back. This puts pressure on the lower back which can and often does result in pain in the lower back and pelvic joints. Pilates focuses on strengthening the core and pelvic floor, which will help to stabilise the pelvis and reduce the load on the lower back.
At Premium Pilates, we welcome pre and post natal women into our personalised reformer classes. We are also considering running pre & post natal Pilates pregnancy classes on the mat in the near distance future. Call us today on 0402 680 724 or visit us online at premiumpilatesstudio.com to find out more.
Image by http://www.riseleyphysio.com.
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