Prenatal Reformer Pilates Studios In Singapore For Mums-To-Be

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is crucial for the physical and emotional well-being of both the mother and her growing baby. And when it comes to prenatal workouts that are effective, well-rounded and safe for the changing pregnant body, there’s nothing quite like prenatal reformer pilates.

In a nutshell, prenatal reformer pilates focuses on strengthening muscles, especially in the core, arms, legs, and pelvic floor, through controlled movements and repetitions that are joint-friendly. At the same time, it promotes better posture, stability and flexibility, with childbirth and postpartum recovery in mind.

What makes reformer pilates even more appealing is the adaptability and scalability of the workout – the machine comes with adjustable and modular apparatus that allows customisation of workouts, as well as a myriad ways to target specific muscles for individual needs and fitness levels. Which means, you are guaranteed to reap the benefits whether you’re a total beginner or a regular practitioner.

Similar to yoga, reformer pilates encourages mindfulness through breathing techniques to help pregnant mums reduce stress and anxiety. Some exercises mimic movements that can be beneficial during labour – a plus for those planning for a natural delivery.

Keen to try prenatal reformer pilates? Here are five studios to check out, including our thoughts after attending a trial class at each studio.

Note: It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any exercise programme during pregnancy to ensure safety and suitability for individual circumstances. With proper guidance and supervision, prenatal reformer pilates classes can be a valuable addition to a healthy pregnancy journey.

1. Breathe Pilates

The Galaxis branch of Breathe Pilates offers classes for up to six participants, ensuring an intimate experience. Our instructor Gemhl Cai took time for pre-class check-ins, making sure newcomers and those with specific needs and/or injuries feel at ease. Her attention to detail extended to addressing each participant by name throughout the session. 

During the session, Gemhl's clear cues and personalised adjustments stood out. Her well-balanced approach to stretching and strengthening exercises with added resistance provided by the reformer machine made each exercise energising and highly beneficial. For example, added resistance from the reformer elevated the effectiveness of calf stretches, which help alleviate pregnancy discomforts such as leg cramps and swelling.

A standout feature of Breathe Pilates is their flexible packages that suit busy schedules. Convenience is a plus, with numerous prenatal group sessions available across their branches – each accessible by public transport.

Breathe Pilates has five branches: 6 Raffles Quay, Galaxis, The Heeren, Novena Medical Centre and Parkway Centre. Visit www.breathepilates.com.sg for more information. Prices start at $611 for 3 private or 4 duet sessions, and 5 group sessions.

2. The Moving Body

The Moving Body runs one group prenatal reformer session per week, led by instructor Aparna Shah, who also brings her expertise as a physiotherapist to the table. Her dual role becomes evident as she conducts the class with specific cues and precise adjustments. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that participants not only receive a highly effective workout but also feel safe and well-supported throughout the session.

What makes this class exceptional is its exclusivity for mums-to-be. Aparna's guidance isn't solely about fitness; it's a holistic approach that addresses the unique challenges and discomforts associated with pregnancy.

As someone who encountered my fair share of aches and pains during pregnancy, I found this class to be a refreshing relief. For instance, Aparna's guidance on relieving back tension coupled with tailored strengthening exercises was a game-changer, providing immediate relief and enhancing my overall comfort during pregnancy. Being an avid gym goer prior to pregnancy, I enjoyed feeling my latissimus dorsi again with the assistance of the reformer machine – and knowing that this would help in my postpartum baby-carrying duties.

Furthermore, Aparna places a strong emphasis on helping participants connect with the deep muscles of the core and back safely both before and after delivery. This goes beyond fitness; it equips expectant mothers with valuable knowledge and tools for a healthier pregnancy journey. Her guidance on pelvic floor strengthening exercises not only enhanced my core stability but also gave me a sense of empowerment, knowing that I was taking proactive steps towards a smoother postpartum recovery. 

The Moving Body has studios in Bukit Timah, East Coast and River Valley. Visit www.themovingbodygroup.com for more information. $35 for a trial session.

3. Focus Movement

The spaciousness and professional setting at Focus Movement was impressive, with physiotherapists actively engaged in one-on-one sessions in other parts of the studio.

I appreciated the comprehensive full-body approach that emphasised areas essential for pregnancy safety such as the pelvic floor. Instructor Mayni Leong's clear instructions and supportive guidance made me feel secure and well-informed. She took time to explain the purpose behind each exercise, how it differs from regular pilates, and how it contributes to childbirth preparation. Options for different exercise intensities were also thoughtfully provided. Stability equipment was used to ensure support and safety, allowing for deeper stretches and strengthening without burdening the joints. 

Furthermore, the class didn't end within the studio doors. Homework exercises were given to address individual concerns, demonstrating a commitment to clients’ well-being beyond the class. With a bad case of gastric reflux at 34 weeks of pregnancy, I felt physically invigorated and was especially thankful for chest-opening exercises that helped me breathe more easily.

Focus Movement is at #08-00 RB Capital Building, 22 Malacca St, Singapore 048980. Visit focusmovement.sg for more information. $28 for a trial session.

4. Activ.Co

Activ.Co is a women-only studio that fosters a nurturing and secure space for expectant mothers. Besides reformer pilates workouts, pregnant mums can also sign up for personal resistance training sessions.

The studio provided a welcoming atmosphere – topped off with a lounge area for coffee, resting or socialising after a workout session.

Instructor Amirah Nabilah infused the prenatal reformer pilates class with her infectious upbeat energy. It felt so much like a regular class that I momentarily forgot that I was pregnant. Instead of focusing on movements that targeted pregnancy-related concerns, she offered a total-body strength workout, reminding us that general fitness is required during labour.

Activ.Co is at #06-02 Tampines Plaza 2, 5 Tampines Central 1, Singapore 529541. Visit www.activco.studio for more information. $99 for a starter pack of 4 sessions for first-timers.

5. Como Shambhala

Nestled along the fringe of Orchard Road, Como is a serene setting away from the hustle and bustle of town. The tranquil and welcoming environment immediately set a comfortable tone for the session.

Instructor Linn Choo conducted the class with a calm and collected demeanour, speaking in soft, gentle tones. This prenatal reformer pilates session was more of a healing experience, focusing less on active stretching and strength-building compared to the classes I’d attended at other studios.

The class emphasised the benefits of prenatal pilates, which include improving posture especially as the pregnant body adapts to a growing baby, reducing back pain, and enhancing overall well-being during pregnancy. A great option for those seeking a mindful and calming prenatal fitness experience.

Como Shambhala is at #06-01/02 Delfi Orchard, 402 Orchard Road, Singapore 238876. Visit https://comoshambhala.com/ for more information. $60 for a session of group prenatal reformer pilates; $550 for a set of 10.

*All information is correct at the time of writing. For the most updated pricing and schedules, please visit the respective websites.

Laine Ng is a certified strength and conditioning specialist. She spent the last 36 years of her life yolo-ing, exploring fitness in various forms before deciding to have kids.