If you are looking to achieve good postural alignment and an invigorating work out to achieve a toned body then this is the class for you! Through a series of sequences and exercises that will build in intensity the aim of these sessions is to build strength without excess bulk, creating a sleek, toned body with slender thighs and a flat stomach. A fundamental part of these classes is body awareness, good posture and easy, graceful movement, improving flexibility and agility.

 

Having a baby can be an exhilarating yet daunting experience. My classes aim to offer sound advice on achieving good posture and a balanced body during the different stages in pregnancy. All exercises are adapted to allow for your evolving body and prepare you for labour and post natal care. 

Breathing and Relaxation: Breathing techniques will prove invaluable during pregnancy and labour. Correct breathing will help to release tension in the body, leaving you feeling calm and relaxed. As the baby grows it will begin to push against your ribcage, leaving you short of breath. Pilates breathing will increase your lung capacity and help you deal with this shortness of breath.  

Core Muscles:  We focus on all deep postural muscles. Strengthening this muscle will support your bump and protect your spine. The exercise done, before labour and a re-eductaion programme afterwards will help your abdominal muscles return to normal after the delivery. 

Pelvic Floor: This will prove invaluable whilst carrying the baby as the pelvic floor bears the weight of the uterus. 

Good Posture: Throughout pregnancy, the body is constantly changing and Pilates will bring you an awareness of your posture. It will help you avoid the aches and pains associated with back and joint problems and help you look great! 

After having a child it is often difficult to get back into an exercise routine. However, it is advisable to wait until after you have been given the go-ahead in your post-natal check. These checks are at approximately six weeks for a natural birth and eight/nine weeks for a caesarean. 

Pilates is ideal for the postnatal period and the pressures a woman faces during this time. Fatigue, weakened abdominals, demands of breastfeeding, and just day-to-day care of a baby can make it difficult for women to regain their strength and figure. Many find it difficult to tone the tummy after giving birth, particularly after a C-section or a difficult delivery. Emphasis at first is on re-educating and then strengthening deep abdominal muscles to ensure good technique and restore good postural alignment.