If you are interested in doing Pilates during your pregnancy, I run a small, lunchtime class in London, near St Paul's in the City and 1:1 classes in South West London.
Pregnancy Pilates is suitable for all levels of fitness and those new to Pilates. Even if you have done Pilates before, you'll need to have confirmation from either your GP or midwife that it is suitable for you to exercise, as there are some conditions where it is not advisable to do so. The period of 8-14 weeks during the first trimester is when most miscarriages occur. It is advisable to stop exercising during these weeks until the pregnancy is well established.
Please note I don't run drop-in pregnancy classes. Classes are run in terms of 6 or 7 weeks, booked and paid for in advance. Class size is kept small by design (rarely exceeds 9), to give a more personal feel to the sessions. Mats and equipment are provided but please bring a clean pair of socks, a bottle of water and wear comfortable clothes you can move in easily. St Bride Foundation, just off Fleet Street, is in walking distance of Fetter Lane, Chancery Lane and Ludgate Circus and is minutes away from City Thameslink train station and St Paul's tube.
Venue: St Bride Foundation, EC4. Time: Thursdays, 1-2pm Click here for a map
Current block runs for 6 weeks until Thursday 9th February.
Passport of 5 classes during the 6 week term is £60.00. The passport is only available if booked prior to the start of each term and no further reductions are available.
You can join mid-term without having to wait for a new block of classes to start as long as there is a place free; please email for availability, price and booking details.
There are no refunds for missed classes.
If you prefer 1:1 classes in the comfort and privacy of your home, the areas I cover are mainly South West London / Surrey borders (in particular Battersea and Raynes Park/New Malden) and Kensington & Chelsea. I do occasionally travel further afield, time slots permitting. If you live near these areas and would like to have classes, please do get in touch.
Ante natal Pilates focuses on supporting your body during the pregnancy and preparing it for the demands of giving birth. Exercises concentrate on breathing, relaxation, strengthening the abdominals and most importantly, learning how to exercise the pelvic floor correctly. We work on increasing your postural awareness and developing the deep postural muscles; both vital for protecting your spine and supporting your bump as the pregnancy progresses. Light hand weights are used to strengthen the upper back and arms.
There are many benefits to exercising during pregnancy. However, if you experience any of the symptoms below or are unsure whether to exercise or not, please consult your GP, midwife or ante natal clinic.
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There can be enormous pressure on women to bounce back to their pre-pregnancy shape and weight within a matter of weeks. However, every woman is different and you need to work at a pace that is comfortable for you as well as fits in with the demands of caring for a new baby. It is important that you listen to your body and take time to heal from the birth. You should only start exercising once you have been given the go-ahead in your post-natal check (this normally happens at approximately 6 weeks for a natural birth and 8-9 weeks for a caesarean).
Post natal Pilates are offered on a 1:1 basis in the comfort and privacy of your own home in the same areas as Pregnancy Pilates 1:1s. I do occasionally teach small post natal Pilates groups, with the minimum number being 3 mums and babies. The same Mum hosts the class at her house, each week at a set time, providing there is enough space. Please call or email for availability for either 1:1s or if you are a new Mum interested in hosting a small group.
Classes at this stage are not intensive, high level workouts. They are designed to promote your well being after the birth of your baby; a time for you to reconnect with your body, especially after the changes it has gone through in the previous 9 months. The focus is on the pelvic floor muscles, gently strengthening weakened abdominals, improving postural awareness and regaining alignment of the body. It is a good idea to combine post natal Pilates with some form of cardio exercise.
It can be tempting to exercise, or continue to exercise, when you're feeling off colour but it's essential to listen to what your body tells you. If you feel unwell or experience any of the symptoms below, stop exercising and rest. If you are uncertain, please consult your GP.
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