The creator of Pilates, Joesph Pilates, focuses his
exercise methodology on the core of the body, what he calls
the "girdle of strength".  This area focuses on working the
abdominal muscles alongside those of the lower back and the
pelvic floor.  These are also the three core areas of
particular interest to pregnancy women, so in theory
Pilates pregnancy sounds as if it would be perfect - but
how does the reality match up

During trimester 1, a woman should be able to perform most
Pilates exercises safely.  A discussion with her medical
provider should identify any of the exercises she usually
undertakes as being unsafe for any particular reason.  Then
the woman should discuss her Pilates program with a
certified member of staff at her gym - if possible, she
should find an instructor who is experienced in working
with pregnant women.

As with all gym exercises that involve floor work, all
floor work that has been approved as part of the woman's
Pilates pregnancy program will be able to be carried out on
her back if so required.  Trimester 2 and 3 however will
require special handling as this will not be the case.
Seek advice from the qualified instructor as to how best to
do these exercises; it could be that a hip wedge is
required.

During a Pilates pregnancy, any exercise that requires
equipment and balance should be avoided after trimester 1
also in case the mother-to-be loses her balance and falls.
Schedule a meeting with a certified instructor as you begin
each trimester and so that the instructor can modify your
program to match with your advancing pregnancy.  As
Pilates, like yoga, also involves breathing exercises, it's
also preparation for labor, and delivery. 

As with most forms of exercise, pregnancy doesn't mean that
you have to stop, it just means you have to consider and
perhaps modify set routines to accommodate the changes
pregnancy puts on the body.  If Pilates is your thing, use
commonsense, professional advice, and caution - and you can
continue doing what you love!

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