Pilates During or After Pregnancy

By Elizabeth A. Allen

If you are a new or expectant mom who loves Pilates, two new DVDs, Pilates for Pregnancy and Pilates After Pregnancy, will help you keep fit before and after childbirth. These programs were developed by Melinda Bryan, a physical therapist, certified Pilates master teacher and mother. The DVDs provide a simple Pilates workout using a mat to reduce the stress on your changing body.

Pilates for Pregnancy uses exercises and stretches to strengthen your abdominal and pelvic muscles and prepare for a healthy pregnancy. Pilates After Pregnancy focuses on improving posture, increasing your endurance and toning your body.

If you’re interested in starting or continuing a Pilates regimen, Bryan offers these tips:

• Start Pilates exercises four to six weeks after a regular delivery. If you’ve had a C-section, wait until about eight to 12 weeks after delivery.

• Adjust your workout to your individual fitness level. Pilates After Pregnancy allows you to choose gentle or more difficult exercises depending on your stamina.

• Vary your fitness routine. Do some aerobic activity, such as walking, along with the Pilates exercises.

• If you are concerned about stress incontinence or a diminished sexual response, Pilates’ focus on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can be especially helpful.