Benefits of Pilates for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy, many physiological changes occur in the body. The women may experience an increase in their cardiac output, heart rate, and blood volume, which would lead to shortness of breath. By focusing on breathing patterns, pilates may help you calm the nervous system. This subsequently reduces blood pressure and improves the stamina needed for the emotional and mental strength of delivery and labor. Certain studies have suggested that pilates may help with postpartum recovery and reduce the risk of pregnancy issues, such as birth interventions, preeclampsia, episiotomies, and cesarean deliveries.
By improving the strength of the pelvic floor, back, and abdominal muscles, pilates may also improve the body awareness and prepare for pushing. Also, these exercises would alleviate back pain and help with sleep. Even the babies can benefit from pilates. It has been shown that they may be less prone to some diseases and have a better development and brain growth at birth. [3]
