1. What Joseph Pilates Says

The creator of Pilates says that his exercise methodology focuses on the core of the body, what he calls the girdle of strength. This area focuses on working the abdominal muscles alongside those of the lower back and the pelvic floor. These are also the three core areas of particular interest to pregnancy women, so in theory Pilates pregnancy sounds as if it would be perfect - but how does the reality match up?

2. During Trimester 1

In this trimester, most pilates exercises are safe to perform. You will most definitely want to talk with your doctor to identify if there are any exercises that are not allowed. Then the woman should discuss her Pilates program with a certified member of staff at her gym - if possible. It is certainly possible to even find a pilates instructor who is experienced with pregnant women in particular. You will be able to carry out exercises on your back if required.

3. Trimesters 2 and 3

You will need to be especially careful during these trimesters. Seek advice from the qualified instructor as to how best to do these exercises; it could be that a hip wedge is required. During a Pilates pregnancy, any exercise that requires equipment and balance should be avoided after trimester 1 also in case the mother- to- be loses her balance and falls. Schedule a meeting with a certified instructor as you begin each trimester and so that the instructor can modify your program to match with your advancing pregnancy. Pilates isn't significantly different from yoga and both are safe to perform, more or less, during your pregnancy. As with most forms of exercise, pregnancy doesn't mean that you have to stop, it just means you have to consider and perhaps modify set routines to accommodate the inevitable bodily changes you will be experiencing during your childbearing term.

In conclusion remember that experts can't find enough great things to say about the benefit of exercising during pregnancy. As long as it's moderate and doesn't put you at risk of slipping or falling most activities (including pilates) are considered safe. Exercising during pregnancy will help you better manage your weight gain, help with the back pain, mood swings and stress... so ladies get out those mats.