Five Basic Principles Prenatal

S1, E1: The aim of contemporary, anatomically-based Pilates training, such as STOTT PILATES, is to develo optimal neuromuscular performance and postural alignment by focusing on core stability, while safely balancing muscular strength with flexibility. This is especially important to pre- and post-natal clients. Whether performed on a Mat or on specialized equipment, modified Pilates exercises incorporating modern theories of exercise science, spinal rehabilitation and accepted considerations for new mothers and mothers-to-be should involve the following biomechanical principles - breathing, pelvic placement, rib cage placement, scapular movement and stabilization, and head and cervical placement. Introducing these principles and reinforcing them over time, develops awareness of how the changing body moves and reacts. This mind-body awareness ensures focus on control and comfort to realize the full benefits of an exercise program at this very special time.