How does prenatal Pilates differ from regular Pilates?
prenatal Pilates differ from regular Pilates
Pregnancy Pilates is designed to help strengthen the body to prepare for childbirth. This form of Pilates leaves out exercises that may not be suitable for pregnant women and substitutes others with safe pregnancy-friendly versions. It is important to find an instructor that has experience working with pregnant clients and to listen closely to your body throughout the class.
As a low-impact exercise, Prenatal Pilates East Sheen can be beneficial during most stages of pregnancy. It helps to increase the strength of the trunk muscles, which can aid in the support of the uterus and pelvic bones. It also helps with the development of core muscle stability, balance and posture. Keeping the muscles strong will help to reduce the likelihood of back pain and discomfort as the pregnancy progresses.
A hormone released during pregnancy called relaxin causes the ligaments to loosen, which can lead to pelvic pain and lower back problems if not strengthened. Pilates is a great way to help strengthen the deep abdominal muscles which can help counteract this laxity and decrease the chance of back pain. It can also help with improving the posture, which is a common problem that can occur during pregnancy due to the changes in the body’s center of gravity.
How does prenatal Pilates differ from regular Pilates?
During the second trimester, a woman’s center of gravity shifts forward as the baby grows. This can affect the balance and coordination, making it easier to fall or lose balance. Pilates can help to improve balance and stability, and the use of props will often be used to assist with posture. Pilates also teaches breathing techniques which can be helpful during pregnancy as the enlarged uterus can put pressure on the diaphragm. This can cause difficulty breathing, especially if exercising or at rest. Proper breathing can help to alleviate this issue and make it easier to cope with daily stress and during labor.
Many moms-to-be want to continue to enjoy the benefits of Pilates and maintain a regular exercise routine throughout their pregnancy. This can boost self-esteem and promote overall well-being and health. In addition to the physical benefits, maintaining a regular Pilates regimen can help to relieve stress and reduce the risk of depression.
In a recent study, researchers found that Pilates training significantly decreased the length of active and active phases of labor and reduced the number of episiotomies, c-sections, first and fifth Apgar scores of newborns. However, before beginning a Pilates program during pregnancy, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and a pelvic floor physical therapist. It is also important to seek out a certified Pilates instructor that has experience working with expectant mothers and is familiar with the modifications necessary for this type of workout. It is also a good idea to avoid classes that require lying on the back during pregnancy, as this can compress the inferior vena cava and aorta.