Pilates and Post-Cesarean Tummy

Fit and Flat - FAST

Most women want to stay fit during their pregnancy and continue to do so by attending regular fitness classes, many of which can be tailored to the needs of a pregnant woman. Spending the time keeping your body fit is a worthwhile endeavor, especially during labor and after the baby is born. Labor can be helped immensely when a mother is fit.

However, there are times when a natural childbirth is not the best method for delivery of the baby, and a cesarean section is required. When a cesarean is done, the doctor cuts through the muscles and tendons to the uterus, then a cut is made into the uterus to allow for the removal of the baby. This type of delivery is major surgery and needs to be respected as such.

Many mothers, after the birth of their babies, can't wait to get back into their skinny jeans. They diet, exercise, and do whatever they think they need to do to lose their baby weight and get fit again. When the baby is born by cesarean section, the push to get fit has to be tempered. It isn't always safe to move too quickly into exercise after a c-section because c-section recovery can take up to two or three months. If you push it, you can definitely cause yourself more harm than good.

Major Surgery: Take Your Time

Remember, a cesarean section is major surgery. It takes time to recover. But you can learn how to get back into shape after your cesarean by being patient and using methods that are not high pressure. One such method of fitness that is extremely effective for post-cesarean recovery is Pilates. Pilates works primarily with core strength, that is creating a strong midsection and back (the core of the body) to help keep everything together.

Pilates Strengthens The Core

Pilates is a gentle, low impact form of exercise, and as such is considered to be an excellent way for pregnant women to stay fit. It not only keeps a pregnant woman fit, but because it enhances the core of the body and creates strength in the abdominal, back and pelvic muscles, it is an excellent way to prepare for childbirth. Once the baby is born, it serves as a great way to get back into shape.