It’s no secret that in pregnancy changes to the body commence from the moment of conception. Although these changes can’t be seen they are definitely felt and the pregnant person can experience any combination of symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, appetite changes, tender breasts, and constipation. These symptoms can effect our clients motivation to exercise however it’s also important to highlight the physiological changes happening from a safety aspect for our Pilates classes.
From a physiological point of view endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and gastrointestinal changes are happening from early pregnancy, all of which can effect a clients exercise capacity. Some examples… by 8 weeks pregnant there is a 20% increase in cardiac output, this means the heart rate of a pregnant client will increase quicker than non-pregnant clients [1]. This can also lead to decreased blood pressure leaving pregnant clients more at risk of feeling lightheaded or dizzy with quick position changes through classes. These examples highlight the importance of asking that simple question, “Any pregnancies?” at the commencement of your classes.
Now we know we should ask if anyone is pregnant, we need to address the how do we ask? As an instructor having effective open communication is vital to building good relationships with your clients however early pregnancy can pose a difficult topic to communicate as some clients will be reluctant to openly say they are pregnant in front of the class. This could be due to any number of personal reasons however we will discuss the sensitive topic of miscarriage a bit further down.
One way to ensure you are asking if anyone in pregnant in a sensitive and discreet way… Approximately 5 minutes prior to the class say, “If anyone has injuries, pregnancies, or anything else they want to let me know come have a chat.” This then opens the line of communication without the class knowing what exactly they are discussing. This small thought can go a long way with building a strong relationship with your clients.
Onto the sensitive topic of miscarriages in early pregnancy. Often clients will want to continue their exercise routine however do have a fear that exertion can put them at risk of miscarriage. It is nice to know that there is currently no link between exercise and miscarriage rate which you can use to reassure your clients. Research has shown that as many as 9 out of every 10 miscarriages happen due to genetic issues so this is not in the control of the women herself [2]. It’s also important to appreciate that before 10 weeks pregnant as many as 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage highlighting the need to be sensitive when talking in a group setting [2].
On a lighter note, asking if anyone is pregnant and obtaining that information early sets up your ability to provide amazing and safe Pilates classes through your client’s pregnancy journey. You will have the ability to reassure them, be empathetic if they are nauseous, and most of all keep them strong, active, and healthy through their pregnancy journey. So, in summary, ask the question, you will be surprised the difference it makes.
References
[1] Soma-Pillay, P., Nelson-Piercy, C., Tolppanen, H., Mebazaa, A. (2016). Physiological changes in pregnancy. Cardiovascular Journal of America. 27(2):89-94. DOI: 10.5830/CVJA-2016-021.
[2] The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. (2019). Pregnancy Loss. https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Pregnancy-Loss.pdf
