Which Exercise Helps Pregnant Stars Stay Fit?

Sarah Michelle Gellar leaving a pilates class. Photo: Bauer-Griffin

Many stars seem to bounce right back after having babies. And for the scores of celebs who do Pilates during their pregnancy, it's not surprising. Currently preggers, Jessica Alba and Sarah Michelle Geller both attend classes regularly. Other celeb moms who incorporated Pilates into their pregnancy fitness routines include Julia Roberts, Cindy Crawford and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Full disclosure here, I own a Pilates studio, and I've been working with pregnant clients since 1999. I, myself, did Pilates throughout my pregnancy. I'm biased, but I believe Pilates is hands down the best workout anyone can do while you're pregnant and here's why.

• Easy on the joints, but still a great workout. You might feel like your back is out of whack or your knees are wobbly, but Pilates will help you stay centered and balanced.
• Your abs stay strong. Did you know your abdominals can stretch up to 300 percent during your pregnancy? With Pilates, your abs will stay strong for as long as possible (eventually they will stretch and weaken, it's part of the process).

• Snap back to your pre-pregnancy jeans fast. You just spent the last nine months poofing out. Pilates is all about "the scoop," we teach you to draw your belly button inward, which is exactly what you need after a baby.
• Blitz back pain before it starts. Your butt gradually gets pushed out during pregnancy. This, on top of that extra 25 to 35 pounds you're carrying, can really put a lot of stress on your back. Pilates will help keep the spine supple and you pain-free.

Here's an easy trick we use in Pilates that you can use with any abdominal exercise -- add a Kegel! You'll see your tummy flatten out in no time, especially right above the pubic bone, which can be prone to post-baby pooches.


If you're looking for more moves to do while pregnant, check out pilates and pregnancy.