Benefits of Pilates During Pregnancy

Your body is changing shape in all kinds of ways---middle, back and sides are all getting a bit wider. Pilates exercises focus all around the center of your body or "core," which helps you hold up your extra weight and size.

These muscles will help you from rounding your shoulders in as you carry your added weight in front. It also prepares you for carrying your baby.

During pregnancy, different muscles are stretched in new places---especially your hips---so more flexibility minimizes the impact you'll feel. Plus, a boost in flexibility can help during labor and delivery, as you will be using your whole body to deliver your baby.

An important part of Pilates exercises is the breathing that goes with it. As you focus your mind on your breathing and your body, you will block out your daily stress and worries---a good thing for pregnancy. Also, any kind of regular breathing practice will prepare you for the marathon of delivering a baby.

Pilates is a challenging exercise, but its moves allow you to temper the intensity depending on your level of fitness. During pregnancy, the exercises can be modified slightly for your changing body. For instance, at a certain point in your pregnancy, your doctor will discourage you from lying on your back, so those Pilates moves that normally have you on your back can be done propped up on several blankets instead.