Pilates exercises during pregnancy: A narrative review

Background: The Pilates method has various health benefits, including reducing kinesiophobia, alleviating pain intensity, and improving disability among individuals with low back pain. Additionally, it has been shown to positively impact mental health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and fatigue. However, the safety and efficacy of practicing Pilates during pregnancy have not been clearly established. Aim: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of Pilates exercises for women during pregnancy. Methods: A comprehensive search for relevant articles was conducted in three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCO. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were reviewed, resulting in the identification of 25 relevant studies. Results and conclusions: The findings indicate that Pilates is a safe physical activity during pregnancy, offering various health benefits for pregnant women. In the absence of contraindications, pregnant women can initiate Pilates practice from the first trimester, starting at a low intensity and gradually increasing the intensity of exercises and the duration of training sessions. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women exercise at least 3-4 times per week, lasting 30-60 min each session.