What do these classes involve?

Postnatal Pilates, also known as postpartum Pilates, aims to aid recovery from pregnancy and childbirth by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the damaged muscles. Postnatal Pilates exercises are low-impact and deliberately gentle, enabling new mothers to heal and rebuild their strength in a safe way.

During our Pilates class we’ll be looking to:

  • Repair and restore your core to better support your back

  • Bring awareness to your body and help you to move safely and recruit the right muscles

  • Improve balance by correcting muscle imbalances which can often occur after pregnancy

  • Build arm strength to aid you in lifting and moving your baby with or without buggies and car seats

  • Rediscover and strengthen your pelvic floor

  • Emphasis on breathing technique, aiding relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety

  • Improve your overall posture

 

Who can attend?

These classes are for all mums from 6 weeks postpartum plus baby. Before booking these sessions, please ensure that you have been signed off by your GP and are safe to exercise. Typically, this is between 6 weeks - 8 weeks from birth but for some women it can take longer, especially for those recovering from a Caesarean or instrumental birth.

The classes are held in 5 week blocks, but you are welcome to book on to as many blocks as you want to. Rachel will tailor the exercises to your individual needs, so they can become more challenging if you want them to, as you regain your strength.

What do I do with my baby whilst I’m exercising?

Throughout the class, you will have the option to either involve your baby in the mat exercises, to hold them, to wear them in a carrier, or to have your baby close to you on your blanket. Sometimes babies sleep all class, other times they may want to breastfeed or bottle feed, and other times they are happy to see and hear the other babies around them, sometimes they cry. This is all part of the class.


What do I need to bring?

Mats are provided for you and your baby along with smaller Pilates equipment. You might want to bring along toys or your own play mat.

Do ensure that you are wearing suitable comfy clothing.

 

How many people are in a class?

There is a minimum of five and a maximum of ten mums per class.

Who runs the classes?

These Pilates classes are run by Dr Rachel Jakeman, GP and trained STOTT Pilates instructor. Rachel is a GP with an interest in holistic care and hormone balance. She is passionate about Pilates and women's health.

 

Dates for 2025

PWB110 Fridays 10th January-7th February 09:30-10:20 Spaces available

Price

£80 for the five week course.

 

Venue

The course is held at The Yoga Room, Balance Studios, Bridge Street Mill, Witney, OX28 1YH. There is parking at the venue (but it can get busy, so please allow time to get parked), and you can bring your pram/car seat into the building.