Prepare For Labor With Pilates

Any activity during pregnancy is good for you, even if you've never done it before.

Get your body and mind ready for labor with prenatal Pilates. "Practicing Pilates throughout pregnancy, even in short spurts, will prepare you to stay focused and relaxed during delivery," says Lizbeth Garcia, creator of the 10 Minute Solution: Prenatal Pilates DVD. This program, based on Garcia's DVD, will benefit your body during pregnancy and labor by building balance, strength and stamina and is appropriate for any fitness level as well as safe for each trimester. You can do this program three times a week, repeating each move for 5 to 10 reps. Warm up first with a brisk 20-minute walk. Remember to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program during pregnancy.