Pre & Post Natal Pilates

There are many benefits to Pilates during pregnancy, and after your baby is born.
Having a baby is a big change for your body, and it will undergo many changes.
Pilates can help by continuing to strengthen core, pelvic floor an back muscles, improve your posture, boost circulation & immune systems as well as giving you a general boost in morale.
Attending classes is also, of course, a great way to socialise with others that are in the same situation.
When exercising during pregnancy, it is very important that the instructor is qualified in pre and post natal exercise, to make sure that you can be confident that your exercise if safe for both you and your unborn baby.
I've recently complemented my existing pre & post natal Pilates training with a post graduate qualification through The Thoughtful Body, who use Pilates Foundation master trainers.
Using my existing training in the Lymphatic system and Fascia release, I incorporate facets of these areas into both pre and post natal classes to help boost the immune system and help you to maintain good mobility.
Lastly, as a recent new mother, I can call upon personal experience of pregnancy and birth when helping you.
Pregnancy can give rise to conditions such as pelvic girdle pain, and to ensure that all class attendees get enough instructor time, all classes are limited to 6 people.

A medical form will need to be completed before you can take part in any classes, and if Pilates is a new form of exercise to you, this medical form will need to be countersigned by your doctor or midwife.

Antenatal

Antenatal classes generally start from about 12 weeks into your pregnancy, and once your midwife or doctor have given consent for you to exercise during your pregnancy.
When you move into your 3rd trimester, it is highly recommended to book a one-to-one session.
During this session, you will receive a personalised leaflet and training on how to release your pelvic floor muscles ready for labour, as well as movements to aid you in first stage labour, and breathing techniques.
During your 3rd trimester, we will also work on optimal foetal positioning, and preparing your body for your birthing experience.
Lastly, this one-to-one session will provide you with a personalised programme that you can work on for the first six weeks after birth in preparation for joining a post natal class.

Postnatal

It is not recommended to join a post natal class until at least 6 weeks after giving birth vaginally, or 8-10 weeks if you've had a caesarian section.
Post natal classes work to return your body to it's original physical state. During your pregnancy, your rectus abdominals will have stretched in order to accommodate your growing baby, and returning these, and the pelvic floor to normal will be the first things covered in post natal classes.
If you've had a caesarian section, whether elective, or emergency, we will also work to rebuild your abdominal muscles after you've fully recovered from the surgery. This mainly accounts for the later start of post natal classes in caesarian section cases.
You will need to complete a new medical form including your doctor's consent to join a class, so that I know about any complications or specialist areas to be aware of during your classes.
If you had a complicated pregnancy, labour, or delivery, a one-to-one will be required before you join a regular group class.
If you've not needed an individual session, I'll need you to arrive 15 minutes early for your first class, so that I can check your medical form, and perform a rectus check.

Classes

Please take a look at the Classes page for details of classes.