CircleBumpCheckedFilledMedicalBookmarkBookmarkTickBookmarkAddCheckBoxCheckBoxFilled

Pilates During Pregnancy

Find out if practicing Pilates is safe while pregnant.
save article
profile picture of Paula Kashtan
Updated April 19, 2017
indoors pilates class
Image: iStock

Pilates is a non-impact workout that increases flexibility, strength and muscle tone, and is safe to practice during pregnancy.

Because it focuses on your core, practicing Pilates on a regular basis can improve posture, alleviate backaches, and ultimately help with labor and delivery. Plus, it will boost your mood and energy levels. Choose a prenatal class if you can. Otherwise, let the instructor know you’re pregnant so she can help you modify or skip any risky moves.

Remember, once you’re in your second trimester, avoid exercising on your back. The weight of your uterus can press on the vena cava, which is the main vein that carries blood from your lower body to your heart. Compressing it can interfere with both your and baby’s circulation.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

save article
ADVERTISEMENT

Next on Your Reading List

pregnant woman sitting on edge of swimming pool
Can You Swim While Pregnant?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman lifting small weights on yoga mat
Is Lifting Weights While Pregnant Safe?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman on running track
Can You Run While Pregnant?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
postpartum mother exercising at home next to newborn baby
Study: This Much Exercise Helps Prevent & Treat Postpartum Depression
By Wyndi Kappes
kellyn taylor holding newborn baby with husband
Mom Finishes First Among US Women in NYC Marathon 10 Months Postpartum
By Wyndi Kappes
pregnant woman lifting weights for exercise
8 Benefits of Exercise During Pregnancy
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
close up of two pregnant woman sitting on yoga mats in the sun
Everything You Want to Know About Prenatal Yoga
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman power walking in outdoor park
A Pregnancy Workout Plan to Get You Through Each Trimester
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
fitness instructor demonstrating how to do kegels
How to Do Kegel Exercises
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman sweating after exercising at home
Exercise During Pregnancy: How Much Is Too Much?
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
lindsay arnold launches pregnancy workout program with the movement club
DWTS Pro Lindsay Arnold Creates Prenatal Workout Series While Pregnant
By Wyndi Kappes
pregnant bethany hamilton in nature
Bethany Hamilton on the Ups and Downs of Working Out While Pregnant
By Wyndi Kappes
Woman exercising during pregnancy
Exercising for Two: the Dos and Don’ts of Pregnancy Workouts
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
ADVERTISEMENT
pregnant woman doing an online at home workout
12 Best Online Prenatal Workouts for Moms-to-Be
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman in fitness clothes
Your Guide to Safe Pregnancy Ab Workouts
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
katrina scott from tone it up shows how to do exercises broken down by trimester
Awesome Pregnancy Workouts for Every Trimester
Medically Reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD
pregnant woman walking in the park on a sunny day
This Prenatal Exercise Could Cut Your Dementia Risk in Half
By Wyndi Kappes
ADVERTISEMENT
4 Ways a Strong Lower Body Can Support Your Pregnancy
4 Ways a Strong Lower Body Can Support Your Pregnancy
By Kseniya Sovenko
5 Myths About Core Workouts During Pregnancy, Debunked
5 Myths About Core Workouts During Pregnancy, Debunked
By Kseniya Sovenko
fitting prenatal exercise into your busy schedule
6 Easy Ways to Fit Prenatal Exercise Into Your Busy Schedule
By Elena Donovan Mauer
ADVERTISEMENT
Article removed.
Article removed.
Name added. View Your List