What is Classical Pilates
Classical Pilates is an exercise form that aims to improve overall fitness while developing the deep muscles of the core and pelvic floor. Classical Pilates is true to the teaching of Joseph Pilates and is a purposeful mind-body-spirit program. Its mind-body connection and non-impact, custom approach to exercise ensures that every patient reaps the benefits from a workout tailored to her fitness level and her body’s unique intricacies.
Classical Pilates exercise is performed on the mat, Reformer and Cadillac apparatus. The Reformer and Cadillac apparatus assist and challenge the patient to gain strength, flexibility and precision. The benefits of Pilates transfer into daily life and are revealed in a more upright, relaxed posture, and greater ease of movement, and increased awareness of the body. Joseph Pilates believed physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. During and after pregnancy physical fitness is necessary to meet the demanding schedule the new baby will require and to safely return the body to an optimal fitness level.
Pregnancy is one of the most meaningful and remarkable experiences in a woman’s life. However, pregnancy is also a physically and emotionally taxing experience because of the pain and discomfort that can go hand in hand with anatomical changes. New Stride Physical Therapy in Corpus Christi provides a comprehensive Classical Pilates program perfectly suited to relieve postpartum back pain and improve overall fitness level of the new mom.
How Does Pilates Relieve Postpartum Back Pain?
- Postural Alignment. Throughout the gestation period, postural alignment alters, and many muscles become imbalanced, which can put mechanical stress on the low back, pelvis, hips and feet. Improving postural alignment is therefore a key benefit of Pilates training during and after pregnancy.
- Lumbopelvic Region. As the baby grows, the woman’s center of gravity shifts, affecting coordination and balance. Pilates exercises can enhance these skills without compromising safety.
- Shoulder Girdle. The physical demands of lifting and carrying a newborn require upper-body strength and stability. Pilates focuses on restoring a scapula stabilization.
Pilates Program Recommendations for the Postpartum
How Does Pilates Relieve Postpartum Back Pain?
- Postural Alignment. Throughout the gestation period, postural alignment alters, and many muscles become imbalanced, which can put mechanical stress on the low back, pelvis, hips and feet. Improving postural alignment is therefore a key benefit of Pilates training during and after pregnancy.
- Lumbopelvic Region. As the baby grows, the woman’s center of gravity shifts, affecting coordination and balance. Pilates exercises can enhance these skills without compromising safety.
- Shoulder Girdle. The physical demands of lifting and carrying a newborn require upper-body strength and stability. Pilates focuses on restoring a scapula stabilization.
Pilates Program Recommendations for the Postpartum
Patient: 
- Periodically Check for Diastasis Recti. The diastasis recti has been correlated to a weakened core and can be worsened by performing typical abdominal exercises such as a sit up.
- Teach the Proper Way to transfer from the Floor. A raised mat or mat converter on a reformer may be used instead of the floor adding to the safety of this unique exercise program.
- Be Sure to Warm Up and Cool Down Adequately. Joseph Pilates incorporated a warmup and cool down in his program to protect cardiovascular and joint health. Each exercise in a series builds on itself and can be easily modified using building blocks to ensure safety.
- Concentrate on Pilates Exercise Programs for the Pelvic Floor, Spinal Stability and Joint Stability, as well as on Balancing the Entire Musculoskeletal System.
- Avoid Large Ranges of Motion. Support positions using a small pillow, spine supporter or small barrel, and ensure sub-maximal contraction (25%) of the pelvic-floor and transversus muscles.
- Adjust for Joint Laxity. Increased laxity makes pregnant women more vulnerable to sprains and strains. Therefore, avoid long-lever movement and refrain from keeping your client in the same position for too long, especially while standing.
- Trains the Mind to Manage Stress. Young Moms and expectant mothers experience nervousness. Nervousness is usually aggravated by lack of proper exercise, especially in the case of anxiety. Pilates can aid in relaxation of the mind and centered intent on movement can alleviate stress.
New Stride Physical Therapy is accepting new patients and remains a safe refuge to our patients in stressful times by providing safe exercise and treatment strategies that recognize the complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.