Pregnancy is an extremely exciting time. There’s anticipation of what’s to come, and also a lot of unknown! As you progress through pregnancy, there are many musculoskeletal changes which occur to prepare your body to give birth. Let’s look at what some of these changes are and how clinical pilates can help minimise challenges and set you up to be happy and healthy during pregnancy and beyond!
What changes can occur during pregnancy?
Posture – As your baby grows and your body changes, you will often develop a more slouched posture, and your hips will tilt forwards.
Muscle tightness – Pregnancy often leads to some areas of your body tightening up.
Increased joint laxity – To assist in giving birth, your joints often loosen up. This can lead to achiness but also increase the likelihood of injury, such as back pain.
Reduced exercise tolerance – As your baby grows, they rely on your energy and nutrients. As a result, you are likely to fatigue and get tired more quickly.
Poor circulation – As your baby requires oxygen and blood from you, your circulation will often be affected. This can lead to swelling, especially through the hands and feet.
How does clinical pilates help manage these changes?
Keeps you strong – Specific exercises keep your muscles working and prevent loss of muscle mass.
Keeps your pelvic floor and deep core muscles active – Specific exercises for core control help maintain your strength and activity while pregnant.
Keeps you flexible and moving.
Reduces swelling – Movement helps the circulatory system to keep working, and exercise can help combat the build up of swelling, especially in your feet.
Is Clinical Pilates safe for me and my baby?
Clinical pilates with a Physiotherapist is considered extremely safe during pregnancy. To keep you and your baby safe, your Physiotherapist will gradually modify your program depending on your stage of pregnancy and any specific issues you may be experiencing. The best part about clinical pilates classes is that they can be modified and tailored to your specific needs.
At what stage of my pregnancy do I need to stop clinical pilates?
Clinical pilates can be completed with your Physiotherapist throughout all trimesters safely, unless you are directed otherwise by your obstetrician, GP, or midwife.
How do I get started?
In order to safely begin clinical pilates, you will first need to be assessed by a Physiotherapist. They will ask you about your pregnancy and what you’d love to get back to doing after giving birth. This is followed by a tailored assessment to ensure that an individualised program is created based on you and your goals. When your Physiotherapist thinks you are ready, you can begin classes!
