Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, making it important to maintain overall health through fitness routines like Pilates. Pilates is important during pregnancy as it is low-impact and strengthens the core. But, there are safety concerns with Pilates on a Reformer. Let’s look into whether Reformer Pilates is safe for pregnant women in this article.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Before we get into whether Reformer Pilates is good for pregnancy or not, let’s first discuss Reformer Pilates. Reformer Pilates is a type of Pilates exercise that is performed on a machine called a Pilates Reformer. The Reformer has a sliding carriage, springs, and ropes that can be used for a number of exercises. Pilates on a Reformer machine is a fantastic method to develop core stability and flexibility.
The Benefits of Pilates During Pregnancy
Pregnant women can safely perform low-impact exercises like Pilates. Throughout pregnancy, it is a great way of maintaining your general health and well-being. The following are some benefits of pregnancy Pilates:
Helps maintain core strength: Pilates exercises are great for strengthening the core muscles, which are important during pregnancy. Good posture is maintained and the risk of back pain during pregnancy is reduced with strong core muscles.
Improves flexibility: Pilates exercises help improve flexibility, which is important during pregnancy. As the body changes during pregnancy, it becomes more difficult to move around, and flexibility becomes an issue. Pilates helps maintain flexibility and makes movement easier.
Reduces stress: Pilates is a wonderful way to relax during pregnancy, which may be a stressful time. Pilates exercises are slow and regulated, which promotes mental peace and reduces stress.
Is Reformer Pilates Safe During Pregnancy?
If done properly, Reformer Pilates is safe to do during pregnancy. But, before beginning any workout plan while pregnant, it is important to speak with a doctor. When performing Pilates on a Reformer while pregnant, keep the following in mind:
Avoid certain exercises: Some exercises on the Reformer may not be safe during pregnancy. It is important to avoid exercises that put pressure on the abdomen, such as the stomach massage. Our experienced instructors at Semprose are trained to teach the correct technique and monitor the pregnant clients to ensure they do each exercise well.
Listen to your body: It is important to listen to your body during Reformer Pilates. If an exercise doesn’t feel right, it is best to stop or ask the instructor to modify the exercise for you.
Modify exercises: Some exercises can be modified to make them safe during pregnancy. For example, the footwork exercise can be done with a Pilates wedge so that you are not laying flat on your back which is not recommended for pregnant women over 18 weeks.
In conclusion, Pilates is a risk-free and helpful form of exercise for pregnant women, offering many benefits like core strength, flexibility, and stress relief. Reformer Pilates can be performed while pregnant, however precautions should be taken and adjustments made as needed. Semprose offers Pilates classes specifically designed for pregnant women, ensuring a safe and fun workout experience. Now is the time to visit our website to enrol in our Pre/Post Natal Pilates classes.