Pilates Contraindications

Who Should Not do Pilates?

Pregnant women benefit enormously from doing Pilates during their pregnancy, but only if they began their Pilates program before getting pregnant. If you are already pregnant, wait until after delivery (with the clearance of your doctor) before beginning your Pilates program.

Naturally, you will want to ensure your baby's full-term development. Follow your doctor's advice, and do nothing to risk your baby!

People with serious back and neck problems often do respond well to Pilates, especially with the guidance of a top-notch instructor. However, our advice is to play it safe and see a doctor first.

If you are experiencing intolerable back or neck pain, especially of the radiating variety, then you are best served getting medical attention before beginning any exercise program. Once your condition is diagnosed and treatment has begun, Pilates may become an important part in your recovery.

Joseph Pilates said, "It is the mind itself which shapes the body." You cannot hope to get results if you daydream yourself through a Pilates session! You must be prepared to take control of your body through exacting mental concentration. You will not be expected to perfectly execute each exercise at first, but you must learn to visualize the correct movement.