1) What is so special about Neomama’s Pre & Postnatal Pilates?
Exercise in general is so vital during this transformative time. The wonderful thing about a Pilates practice during and after your pregnancy, is that even though you will feel that you are getting a good work out, it will always be low impact on your joints. This is important because as the hormone relaxin is released into the mother’s body, there is a softening affect that takes place on all the ligaments of the body in preparation for labour and delivery. Not only is Pre & Postnatal Pilates preventative for common complaints during pregnancy and after delivery, but it is also an excellent step in preparing your body for the physical demands of being a new parent. Training your body to have correct alignment, coupled with core and pelvic floor exercises, will allow the new mom to feel less of the aches and pains related to new motherhood. Instead, her Pilates practice will help her experience more energy, comfort and strength.
2) I’ve never done Pilates. Do I need to have any experience?
No experience is necessary. We welcome all levels. These classes are designed to incorporate all levels of fitness and Pilates experience. Often you’ll find beginners and seasoned Pilates practitioners in the same class.
3) I heard Pilates is really easy. I’m an athletic type, so even though I’m pregnant, will this class be challenging enough for me?
Pilates is only easy if you choose to not challenge yourself in your practice. Every student is encouraged to choose their own pace and intensity. Have said that, each exercise, no matter how basic, is designed to challenge the beginner as well as the seasoned practitioner. Many of the exercises can be modified to suit your level. Also, within a “session of classes”, more challenging exercises are introduced each week, as the basics are mastered.
4) I heard Pilates is really complicated and that there is all this fancy equipment. Is this true?
Our style of Pre & Postnatal Pilates is practiced on thick mats (provided by each facility). All our classes are “Mat” style Pilates. The practitioner utilizes her own body weight to create resistance and challenge in each exercise. Basic equipment like blocks, straps, bands or rollers are used in some classes.
However, there is a style of Pilates that is practiced on the “Equipment” (Reformer, Cadillac etc). If you would like more information on Private Training sessions on the “Equipment”, please contact us here.
5) Do I need a Dr.’s note to join your classes?
No, we do not require an actual note. However, it’s recommended that you do have your Dr. or Midwife’s approval before starting any new form of exercise or any program of exercise during your Pre or Postnatal months.
6) Are women in all trimesters welcome during the Prenatal Pilates classes? And when is it best to start or stop doing Pilates during pregnancy?
Yes, women in all trimesters are welcome.
Generally it is best to begin a Pilates practice when you are feeling up to it, providing you have your Dr. or Midwife’s approval. Some women experience extreme fatigue and/or nausea early in the pregnancy or even throughout the whole pregnancy. And some women breeze through their whole pregnancy without any symptoms at all. Therefore, every individual expecting mom needs to listen to her own body signals.
If you have any existing medical conditions or a/any pregnancy related medical condition/s, please consult your Dr. or Midwife before attending or continuing class.
7) When is it best to start Mom & Baby Pilates classes?
Always have your Dr. or Midwife give you the green light before attempting any new form of exercise during this time. Even though our classes are designed for the new mom, you’ll need to let your body heal. The exact timing will be different for every woman. Resting your body and bonding with baby is more important in the first couple months than “getting your body back”. You’ll have plenty of time for that.
Vaginal births: 4 weeks after delivery (at the earliest)
Casearean Births: 6 weeks after delivery (at the earliest)
8) The session started already. Can I still register? And will I have missed out on anything?
We understand that the timing of your pregnancy and/or your readiness to attend Mom & Baby classes may not line up exactly with our scheduled sessions. With this in mind, we welcome you to register at any time. Each Community Centre will pro-rate your session fee. Click here to get contact info for the Community Centre you wish to attend.
Even though it’s best to start at the beginning of each session, due to the nature of the Progressive style of teaching, you will still benefit from starting part way through the series. Basics are always reviewed, so you’ll never be left behind.
9) What should I expect to bring and wear to a typical Prenatal class?
Bring: water bottle
Wear: Stretchy, breathable and comfortable clothing that will not restrict any movement. Layers of clothing are also helpful, as your temperature will tend to change throughout the class.
10) What should I expect to bring and wear to a typical Mom & Baby Pilates/Infant Massage class?
Bring: Baby blanket, other baby essentials for the one hour class, and water bottle for you
Wear: Stretchy, breathable and comfortable clothing that will not restrict any movement. Layers of clothing are also helpful, as your temperature will tend to change throughout the class.
