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Chapter-17 Pilates in Pregnancy

BOOK TITLE: Evidence based Guidelines During Pregnancy for the Obstetricians

Author
1. Saxena Richa
ISBN
9788184484427
DOI
10.5005/jp/books/10300_17
Edition
1/e
Publishing Year
2009
Pages
18
Author Affiliations
1. Obstetrician and Gynecologist, New Delhi, India, Course Mentor: Cracking MRCOG, New Delhi, India, New Delhi, India
Chapter keywords

Abstract

Pilates is a gentle non-aerobic form of exercise that tones and strengthens the body\'s muscles. Recently, Pilates has been gaining a lot of popularity regarding its use during pregnancy. Due to the gentle nature of many of the exercises in Pilates, women are increasingly seeking it both during and after pregnancy. In particular, many of the exercises can be performed on the side or while sitting, and hence are safe during the second and third trimester when a supine position might be contraindicated due to the risk of development of supine hypotension syndrome. Pregnancy is associated with a number of musculoskeletal problems. It is important to educate all pregnant women, as well as those involved in postnatal care with advice regarding exercises that are safe in pregnancy, since the physiological and hormonal changes of pregnancy are inevitable and unavoidable. However, by devising a proper exercise program for the woman, the obstetrician can help her alleviate numerous pregnancy related problems. One such option is pilates, which provides numerous benefits to the woman by strengthening the core4stabilizing muscles around her pelvis and spine, improving the breathing pattern, at the same time ensuring minimal damage. Therefore this chapter primarily discusses prenatal pilate exercise which is a specialized workout designed especially for pregnant women. These exercises focus on strengthening the core (abdomen, pelvis and spine), using breath to control abdominal muscles. It helps the woman develop an awareness of how her body works, helping her mind and body to work in harmony. This has been primarily discussed in this chapter. Pilates is an exercise method, designed to stretch, and strengthen the muscles and enables the body to balance. By maximizing the mother\'s core stability before and during pregnancy, it should be possible to limit any potential harm.

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