Pilates and Pregnancy

Exercise is most important for all ages and in particular to most of health problems. There are many kinds of exercises that has to be followed for that age or that problem. In case of women light exercises are to be followed as per their body conditions and living styles. Pilates is one such exercise that many women love to do. Pilates is among best exercises for women before and after pregnancy. But it is found to be very effective exercise during pregnancy. The only reason for Pilates to be recommended during pregnancy is that it builds up the core strength and tones up the back, abdominals and pelvic floor. These parts in women are the ones that support for a more comfortable pregnancy and the delivery.

Normally exercising during pregnancy is not an easy task even when you are recommended to do it. That can be really hard in first trimester though it is the starting stage because of nauseating and tiring. Pilates in such situations is the best choice. Pilates can not at once started, if you are new to it advisable to attend pre natal Pilates classes and go on attention of the instructor. There are many books, videos and DVDs that teach about using Pilates which you can depend on. When you exercise it means you need to eat more and put on more calories and you should always be aware that you are not eating for one but for two baby and you. When you exercise you are normally tend to burn more calories, so do eat extra food.

What is it?

Pilates are not new they date back to 1900, created by Joseph Pilates. It was used traditionally by professional dancers for being flexible, strong and maintains muscle supple without the use of any weights. It all needs is just a mat. It may look similar to yoga where it needs to keep breathing, position of body in balance with intense concentration. But Pilates are more dynamic as you keep moving your body and will not remain static as in some part of yoga. There are very few repetitions moving through several planes of motions. This can be incorporated in your routine to be done few times in a week. You need to keep changing to other positions and moves as your baby grows and the center of gravity in body keeps changing.

Do’s and Don'ts:

When you start doing pilates and as it progresses by months give proper attention on how you feel and if discomfort is experienced, stop doing that particular move or posture don’t strain as the person inside will not be happy. Avoid of doing supine position during second and third trimester. When you lie back there can be oxygen cut off or not in required quantity to the baby. Don’t make to much extreme moves that will loosen the ligaments in pregnancy times. Try to balance and do smooth moves or else imbalance or hyperextend of joints will lead to some consequences that are not desirable and will not be dangerous.