By Sarah Janes
There’s something special about supporting a woman through pregnancy and the postnatal months. Watching her move with growing confidence, connect with her changing body, and feel strong again after birth it’s some of the most rewarding work we can do as instructors.
If you’ve been teaching for a while, you’ve probably already had a pregnant or new-mum enquire about your classes or lessons. I’ve found that taking a dedicated step into pre- and post-natal training makes everything feel clearer and safer for both us and the women we teach.
That’s why I wanted to share this with you, no matter what style of Pilates you teach. The foundation of what we do (mindful movement, breath, strength, and body awareness) pairs beautifully with this special population. Adding targeted training helps us support them even more effectively.
Prioritising safety above all
It’s so important to teach in a safe way during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Women’s bodies are going through profound changes, and getting the adaptations right can make all the difference in how supported and confident they feel.
A dedicated pre- and post-natal qualification gives us clear guidance on screening clients thoughtfully, understanding key health considerations, and knowing when to modify or refer. It helps us to create sessions that feel safe and nurturing at every stage.
The Level 3 Supporting Pre and Post Natal Clients course does exactly that. It focuses on practical, evidence-informed ways to keep movement beneficial while prioritising safety and wellbeing.
Understanding the realities of pregnancy and early motherhood
Pregnancy brings shifts in posture, pelvic floor demands, and sometimes discomfort. Postnatally, there’s healing to honour such as pelvic floor recovery, possible diastasis recti, the physical load of feeding and carrying, and the emotional side of becoming a mother.
With proper training, we learn how to adapt exercises accessibly across trimesters and into recovery. We discover thoughtful ways to support stability, breathing, and strength that honour where each woman is in her journey.
Real, research-backed benefits for the women we teach
Pilates during pregnancy has been linked to reduced low back and pelvic pain, better stability, improved posture, and in some studies, shorter labour duration and reduced labour pain. Postnatally, it supports pelvic floor strength, helps with recovery, eases back pain, and reduces fatigue.
A practical way to grow your skills and confidence
Specialising in pre- and post-natal work lets you support a wider range of clients with greater confidence. Many instructors find it brings fresh energy to their teaching and often leads to beautiful referrals from mums who feel truly cared for.
Join me for our next course in Sutton Coldfield
I’m excited to be running our next Level 3 Supporting Pre and Postnatal Clients course right here at VIPilates in Sutton Coldfield on 1st August 2026.
This 2-day in-person training is accredited by Active IQ. We’ll cover essential anatomy and physiology, safe exercise adaptations (including with small equipment), programme design and health and safety considerations. You’ll also receive supportive eLearning materials to take home. The day will start at 10am and close at 3pm.
It’s open to Pilates instructors (along with yoga and fitness teachers) who hold relevant Level 2 or 3 qualifications. The emphasis is on building real confidence so you can apply what you learn immediately, always with safety at the heart.
Spaces are kept small for a supportive, personal experience. I’d love to share what I’ve learned from years of teaching and working with pre- and post-natal clients.
You can find full details and register here
Or email me at info@theclassicalpilatesacademy.com if you have any questions. I’m happy to chat.
Whether you’re just starting to explore this area or you’re already working with mums and want to deepen your approach, this training is a supportive next step.
The women we teach deserve to move safely and confidently. When we equip ourselves with the right knowledge, we can offer exactly that and it makes the teaching even more fulfilling.
I hope to see some of you in August!
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