Is It Okay To Do Reformer Pilates While Pregnant?

Have you ever wondered if you can keep up with your reformer pilates routine while pregnant?

You're not alone. I've had so many conversations with soon-to-be mums who love their pilates practice but feel unsure about continuing during pregnancy. There's a lot of mixed advice out there, and I get why it can be confusing.

Can you actually do reformer pilates while pregnant?

Yes, you can—but with some modifications. Pregnancy changes your body in so many ways, and while pilates can be incredibly beneficial, it's important to adapt your movements. The key is to listen to your body and adjust based on how you feel.

I've spoken to many women who continued using a foldable reformer throughout their pregnancy, finding it helpful for keeping their strength up while reducing pressure on their joints. The beauty of a reformer is that it supports low-impact movement, making it an excellent choice if you're looking for a safe way to stay active. Here’s an article that breaks down some of the benefits of pilates for pregnancy.

What are the benefits of reformer pilates during pregnancy?

1. Core and pelvic floor strength – Strengthening these areas can help with stability, posture, and even labour recovery. A friend of mine once shared how working on her breath control through pilates made such a difference during childbirth. It's something I always recommend—especially since breathing plays a massive role in pilates (read more on breathing techniques here).

2. Reduced back pain – As your belly grows, your posture shifts, often leading to discomfort in your lower back. A well-structured pilates session helps counteract that by keeping your spine aligned and your muscles engaged. WebMD also explains how pilates can support your body during pregnancy.

Are there any risks?

There are some moves you’ll want to avoid. Anything that puts excessive pressure on your abdomen or involves lying flat on your back for long periods may not be ideal, especially in the later stages. I always suggest checking in with a professional instructor or physiotherapist before making adjustments to your routine.

Something I’ve noticed is that some women feel uncomfortable doing traditional core exercises as their pregnancy progresses. If that's the case, swapping out movements for more supportive ones—like using a non-slip surface or adjusting resistance levels—can make a world of difference. Here’s a guide that breaks down how to modify pilates safely during pregnancy.

What do other pregnant women say?

From my conversations, a lot of women say pilates kept them feeling strong and energised throughout their pregnancy. Some found that focusing on gentle, controlled movements helped with overall balance and coordination.

Others mentioned feeling more in tune with their body—something I completely relate to. One woman told me she was able to manage swelling in her legs better by staying consistent with her reformer routine. This article also talks about how reformer pilates can support pregnancy health.

What’s the best reformer for pregnancy?

If you're planning to continue pilates at home, a foldable reformer can be a great option. It's compact, easy to store, and provides all the support you need for a smooth workout.

Also, small accessories like grip socks can help with stability, ensuring you feel more secure while exercising.

Final thoughts

Pregnancy is such a personal journey, and when it comes to exercise, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But if you're feeling up to it and making the right modifications, pilates can be an amazing way to stay active.

If you're unsure about what moves to do, I always recommend working with an instructor who has experience with prenatal pilates. And if you need the right equipment, we’ve got a great range of reformers that are perfect for pregnancy-friendly workouts.

Got questions? Reach out to me—I'd love to help.