Pilates in pregnancy time

The Pilates "method," as it is now known, is an exercise system focused on improving flexibility, strength, and body awareness, without necessarily building bulk. The method is a series of controlled movements performed on specially designed spring-resistant exercise apparatus (the Reformer, the Cadillac, the Spine Corrector, the Ladder Barrel, and the Wunda Chair) or on the floor (mat work), and the sessions are supervised by specially trained instructors. Pilates is resistance exercise, not aerobic (cardio), although the heart rate will certainly rise for a de-conditioned individual. However, it's closer to weight lifting than it is to jogging, biking, or other aerobic activities, and so you should consider it resistance exercise.

You should check with your doctor if you are pregnant and want to try Pilates. There are currently no studies to prove the safety or efficacy of Pilates during pregnancy. This is not to say that it is unsafe, but you should check with your doctor first. There is evidence that aerobic exercise during pregnancy at a level great enough to produce a training effect does not adversely affect birth weight or other maternal and infant outcomes, and that it may be associated with fewer pregnancy-associated discomforts, but there is limited research on weight lifting and pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, in their position statement on pregnancy and exercise, recommend limiting repetitive isometric or heavy resistance weight lifting and any exercises that result in a large rise in blood pressure. Pilates can be both isometric and high intensity, and so the instructor should account for that if teaching you Pilates and you are pregnant. Again, check with your doctor if you are pregnant and want to try Pilates.