Moving while pregnant

GOOD MOVES + PREGNANCY

Pregnancy is a journey, and we are here to support you through it every step (and stretch) of the way.

Good Moves is a safe space for pregnant people to move, stay active and keep healthy throughout their pregnancy.

Our teachers are all expertly trained to help you navigate any modifications you might need and are all informed with evidence-based, up-to-date Australian Guidelines.

Staying active during pregnancy has many benefits for the health of both mum and bub, including:

  • regular physical activity/exercise during pregnancy maintains or improves cardiorespiratory fitness

  • preparing for labour and recovery

  • lower risk of gestational diabetes

  • less back and pelvic pain

  • lower risk of incontinence

  • better mental health, including a lower risk of postnatal depression.

  • physical activity/exercise during pregnancy protects against unplanned caesarean section, and may reduce the risk of instrumental delivery.

Resources.

At Good Moves, we follow the evidence and up-to-date Australian Guidelines around physical activity for pregnant women. Read the guidelines here.

Client Testimonials on Pregnancy / Postnatal Pilates

  • Anita

    “I started at the Good Moves Studio at the beginning of 2022, at 22 weeks pregnant, and previously not been exercising much. I have felt so welcome by all the Instructors, giving me alternative exercises to do due to the pregnancy and as well feeling included in the group. Good Moves Studio has given me confidence that event pregnant I am still so able to move my body and get strong. I feel so much stronge, i can carry my 2 year old and the 28week bump in my hips and knees (previous hip pain during pregnancy) and am confident that continuing pilates will be crucial for a great birth and postpartum recovery.”

  • Kate

    “Love Good Moves. Makes me feel so confident and strong. The girls are so helpful in modifying exercises and got me through my pregnancy and postpartum period. Could not recommend more highly.”

  • Karly

    “I am so beyond impressive with Good Moves! After having my two babies I was so nervous to get into the swing of things but the atmosphere is so welcoming, the classes are enjoyable and push you in the best way possible! So glad to have found something that makes me feel so good mentally and physically!”

  • Emily

    “I just wanted to thank you for creating such a wonderful and safe studio - I joined 9 months after having my baby and I wasn’t in a great place physically and mentally and going back to exercise and exercising in such an inclusive environment with understanding and kind instructors has made all the difference!”

  • Hollie

    “I am so grateful for edens clases in my pregnancy. She is the best and so caring”

  • Anais

    Rachel’s classes are so fun and always different! I’m 28 weeks pregnant and never I thought I could keep going hard that pregnant but Rachel (and all the other teachers) are incredible at modifying and making me feel safe! If you haven’t try her class yet, you are missing out”

  • Shelly

    “Amy is amazing! Currently 30 weeks pregnant and she makes each class so accomodating. I feel supported and empowered after each one! :-)”

  • Zoe

    I just love love love Alana’s strength classes. She knows my limits better than I do and always pushes me to do that little bit extra!!! I always feel super supported by her in class especially in these last few weeks of pregnancy!”

  • Ruby

    “Just did my first proper pike today! It has been a goal of mine since joining Good Moves. I lost so much fitness and strength during a sick pregnancy, and I finally built up the confidence to join a pilates class just for me. I am feeling stronger and more confident in each class. the vibe, the classes, the instructors are 10/10”

  • Chelsea

    I went to Good Moves throughout my entire pregnancy right up until 39 weeks. If not for all of the amazing teachers, I would not have felt as strong and capable as I did in preparation for labour. I started back slowly postpartum after 6 weeks and 18 months on, I’m still here and feeling stronger than ever. Thank you!

 FAQs

  • The Physical Activity Guidelines for Pregnant Women recommends 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate intensity physical activity over the course of a week. Plus, muscle strengthening activities at least 2 days each week, aiming to do strengthening activities, such as light resistance training or bodyweight exercises.

    Only 30% of women meet the minimum level of exercise recommended by the national physical activity guideline for moderate-vigorous physical activity. Doing any physical activity is better than doing none. If you do no physical activity right now, start by doing some, then slowly build up to the recommended amount.

    The amount of exercise you do each week while pregnant should be guided by how well you are feeling and is likely to change over the course of your pregnancy.

  • According to the Physical Activity Guidelines, Women who are healthy and already active do not need to seek medical clearance for physical activity/exercise during pregnancy.

    Always listen to your body and if something doesn’t feel right during or after exercise, we advise to always seek advice from a qualified medical practitioner.

  • All classes are suitable up to 20 weeks.

    Post 20-weeks, Reformer Strength, Total and Stretch are all suitable.

  • Modifications to physical activity/exercise may be required to accommodate the physical changes that occur as the pregnancy progresses. If there are any concerns with how you are feeling, we advise seeking advice from a qualified health professional.

  • As your pregnancy progresses and your body changes, you might have to modify your physical activity. Avoid any activity that:

    • has a high risk of falling or collision

    • requires heavy lifting

    • has significant changes in pressure (such as sky diving or scuba diving)

    • Avoid standing still for long periods of time, or lying flat on your back after 28 weeks.

    • gives you pain or discomfort.

    To exercise safely:

    • stay well hydrated

    • avoid exercising in hot weather, especially in high humidity

    • avoid standing still or lying down for long periods

    • avoid physical activity at high altitude (above 2,000 metres)

    • always wear appropriate shoes, non-restrictive clothing and a supportive bra.

    • Some stretches may need to be modified from 28 weeks.

Still have Questions?