Why Pilates Local?

Our Pre and Post-Natal specific Reformer Classes are taught and overseen by Cath Webster, a Physiotherapist at the Royal Women's Hospital who specialises in Pelvic Floor and pregnancy related complaints.

For those who may need more focussed attention for specific pain or discomfort, individualised Studio Sessions are also available. Please refer to our Getting Started page for details relating to booking an Initial Consultation.

Pilates During Pregnancy (Pre-natal)

Regular exercise is recommended for all women with uncomplicated pregnancies and Pilates is a great way to manage the hormonal and postural changes that occur. All Pre-natal classes at Pilates Local aim to target specific areas to help alleviate pregnancy related discomfort and reduce any symptoms relating to pelvic floor dysfunction. The benefits of participating in Pilates during the Pre-natal period include:

• Strengthening Pelvic Floor muscles with an aim to prevent incontinence during both the Pre and Post-natal period
• Strengthening the muscles of the lower back, hips and pelvis to decrease the prevalence and severity of pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain (PGP), symphysis pubis dysfunction and lower back pain
• Improving both seated and standing posture
• Preparing for the caring of an infant, particularly carrying and feeding, by improving postural awareness, strength and endurance of the muscles of the shoulders, neck and upper back
• Assisting in relaxation

Pilates After Pregnancy (Post-natal)

General guidelines recommend a return to low-impact exercise including Pilates from the sixth week post delivery. Pilates during the Post-natal period aims to:

• Rehabilitate, strengthen and improve endurance of Pelvic Floor muscles to decrease the risk of incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse
• Reduce abdominal muscle separation and restore function of abdominal muscles
• Decrease pain and functional restrictions from musculoskeletal changes that may have occurred during pregnancy, namely symphysis pubis dysfunction, pelvic girdle and lower back pain
• Improve general strength to cope with the functional demands of caring for an infant, largely targeted around improving postural awareness, strength and endurance of the shoulders, arms, neck and upper back
• Assist in preparing for a return to higher impact activities

Post-natal Pilates - Mums and bubs Reformer class

Pilates Local offers Mum's and bubs Reformer classes every Thursday morning. No childcare required, Mum's are welcome to bring their new little bub along to class! It is generally safe to commence Postnatal classes from the sixth week* after birth.

NB: Pilates Local is located up one flight of stairs on level 1 - assistance can be provided to carry prams upstairs, or capsules/baby carriers may be used. Please note that while we do all we can to assist in keeping babies settled during the class, ultimately you are responsible for the supervision of your child.

* Classes may only be commenced once a 1:1 Assessment Consultation has been completed. This will be undertaken by a Physiotherapist with specialist training in Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

All classes are by appointment only. Please note that medical clearance may be required before commencing sessions. This can be discussed during your Initial Consultation. 

Health Fund Rebates may be available depending on your level of cover.

References relating to content on this page:
Morkved et al., 2007; POGP, 2012; Continence Foundation of Australia 2016