There's no doubt that the overall benefits of incorporating Pilates into one's daily life are infinite. One might not know though just how beneficial Pilates can be for moms to be. Listed below are just a few of the many benefits Pilates can have during and after pregnancy.
Quicker Recovery Post Pregnancy
It's simple, the stronger a woman's body is throughout their pregnancy, the quicker they will recover post labor. If a solid foundation is built and maintained, the body is much more likely to bounce back quicker. It's also important to keep a strong connected core especially in the abdominal area to avoid losing connection to the abdominal area as it is stretched during pregnancy.
Stronger Connection to Pelvic Floor Muscles
As a mother's uterus expands, the pelvic floor becomes the main foundation for supporting the organs in the lower abdominal cavity. This is why strengthening the abdominal area through Pilates is essential for a smoother pregnancy. Developing a strong pelvic floor also goes hand in hand with a quicker recovery after giving birth. One's ability to feel contractions and the release of the pelvic floor establishing both connection and flexibility is also enhanced and strengthened through Pilates.
Better Breathing Control
Though a woman's lung capacity isn't physically inhibited from pregnancy, the body's diaphragm compresses as the baby grows making it feel harder to breathe. The intracoastal lining of the rib cage is strengthened through a variety of poses in Pilates making it easier for one to still take deep breaths. Constant concentration on the breath during Pilates also makes it much more bearable during labor to focus on the breathing for a much smoother labor.