Tips for Bringing Your Bump to the Barre

I know that I've gotten a little off barre topics recently which is why I figured I'd bring back a topic that comes up a lot. Can you still do barre when you are pregnant? The answer is YES!

SoulBody Barre instructor, Amy Winemiller, is a perfect example. She just taught her final class with her baby boy expected to arrive in one month. I wanted to get some of her tips to share with all of you so that you can still come and sweat at the barre throughout your pregnancy. 

For pregnant woman who continue to take barre throughout their pregnancy here are several modifications/suggestions from Amy;

• Listen to your body and do what feels comfortable

• Continue performing as much of the class as possible; the majority of the class you should be able to do, but most of the core and plank exercises will become more difficult

• Whenever needed place your knee(s) on the ground for planks/push-ups

• For the side plank place your top hand on the ground in front for support if you feel too off balance

• If the boat position becomes too difficult even with your hands behind your knees you can always place both hands on the ground directly below your shoulders

• If you need to move from high boat to low boat you can lower back tapping your elbows on the ground for low boat, then use your arms to help assist back to high boat

• After 12 weeks (possibly sooner; consult your doctor) you can no longer lay on your stomach, so the Pilates frog and Pilates swimming performed in the second release this year are not allowed; instead hold a plank

• For any core exercises performed lying flat on your back, lift up to reclined forearm to reduce the amount of time on your back and tension in your lower abdominal muscles

• The short amount of time spent lying on our backs for the bridge work shouldn't be an issue, but consult your doctor

• Remember to keep you head above your heart. This will keep circulation consistent and the heart rate at a reasonable level. 

As always, please continue to discuss you workout regimen with your doctor throughout
your pregnancy. Please feel free to reach out to your SB Barre and Body Barre instructors regarding modifications during your class. We'd love to get your feedback on any other modifications you've found and you can share on our Soul Body Community Page on Facebook. 

It's always refreshing to focus on the positive and know that it's important to enjoy yourself while doing it.

Happy Thursday!
Emily