Expecting mothers can benefit from Pilates sessions as well. The exercises with modifications are safe for mom and baby from the beginning to end of pregnancy. Emphasis is placed on strengthening and maintaining flexibility in the core abdominal muscles, pelvic floor, and back during pregnancy in order to balance the weight of your growing child.
The deep breathing techniques learned in Pilates classes are essential for calming, focus, and pain management during pregnancy and labor.
The Pilates warm up will include gentle stretching, mobilization and stabilization of the spine, and rotation of the spine. As you move toward the end of your pregnancy, the Pilates ball will be a comfortable way to exercise without overworking the abdominal area. The ball is also often used during labor to ease delivery. After giving birth, Pilates will help new mothers regain abdominal and pelvic floor muscle tone and control after pregnancy. The system also helps counteract the common posture problems new moms face from the day-to-day demands of child care.
Many of CORE's instructors have taken specialized coursework for teaching pregnant and postpartum women through both Power Pilates and the Center for Women's Fitness.