Pregnancy Modifications for Group Reformer (Pre and Postnatal)

Teaching Pilates during pregnancy and the post-natal period requires more than caution. It requires understanding, clarity, and confidence.

This AUSactive webinar is designed for fitness professionals and Pilates instructors who want to safely and effectively apply pregnancy modifications for Pilates in Group Reformer classes. You will learn how to maintain class flow, inclusivity, and professionalism while supporting your clients’ needs.

Presented by Kath Banks, Accredited Exercise Physiologist and senior Pilates educator, this one-hour session explores how pregnancy and post-natal recovery affect load tolerance, posture, breathing, and movement control. Participants will gain practical, evidence-informed strategies to adapt exercises and teach with confidence rather than relying on fear-based rules.

The webinar focuses on real-world teaching applications, helping instructors balance individual needs within group environments while staying safely within their professional scope. Key areas of focus include:

• Pelvic floor and abdominal wall support
• Breath and posture management
• Upper back and thoracic spine adaptations
• Lumbopelvic control and stability

Clear guidance will also be provided on when referral to a health professional is required.

What you’ll learn

By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

• Apply pregnancy modifications for Pilates safely in group Reformer classes
• Identify contraindicated and higher-risk exercises and implement appropriate modifications
• Support pelvic floor and abdominal wall function through breath and pressure management
• Adapt exercises for posture, upper back, and thoracic spine demands
• Improve lumbopelvic control and stability through effective cueing and exercise selection
• Adjust range of motion, resistance, positioning, and tempo across pregnancy and post-natal stages
• Work confidently within scope of practice and recognise when referral is indicated