Pilates during First and Second Trimester
The first period of pregnancy is called the first trimester. During this time, the body experiences a lot of changes to prepare for the baby. Nausea and fatigue tend to occur more frequently due to hormonal changes and the expansion of the uterus. You can still perform pilates during the first trimester. Nevertheless, it is necessary to avoid overdoing it and listen to the body. Do not try to advance the exercises and work out too much. [6]
During the second trimester of pregnancy, women may feel better as nausea and fatigue may become subsided. The growing bump may now become more visible. Blood flow to the baby may be limited when the uterus compress a major vein called the vena cana. You need to make some modifications to ensure pilates are suitable to the body changes. Consider using supportive props to stabilize and support the upper body. Forward-flexing abdominal exercises and full planks should be avoided as they would increase pressure on the intra-abdomen. [7]
