An Introduction to Preggi Bellies

Preggi Bellies was established in 1998 by Physiotherapists Lauren Gabriel and Michelle Gray in response to an overwhelming need for a safe, beneficial holistic exercise program for pregnant women. Although the exercise industry was catering for a wide range of fitness levels and interests, there was a problematic lack of choices for pregnant women, as well as a lack of knowledge by exercise professionals on what to advise pregnant women on the do’s and don’ts of pregnancy exercise.

 

Preggi Bellies has been from the start a unique program, the first of its kind in Australia and the first exercise program in Australia to utilise the stabilising properties of the exercise ball in pregnancy. The Medi Ball provides support for the back, core and pelvic floor muscles, which is especially important during pregnancy due to the extra strain placed on the pelvic floor by a growing baby. High impact exercise is also unsuitable for the pregnant woman, meaning the use of a medicine ball to reduce the impact of each move and simultaneously provide support makes Preggi Bellies uniquely suited for the pregnant body. The muscle work in the stretching component of the class assist in preparing the body for labour and childbirth, sending women into labour better prepared and stronger and reducing the post-birth recovery time significantly. 

The program incorporates full cardio, core strengthening and weight bearing exercises. Very few pregnancy exercise classes provide a cardio workout and the industry is rife with myths and misconceptions about what to and what not to do while pregnant.

Designed specifically for pregnancy by physiotherapists, Preggi Bellies allows women to exercise confidently and safely and enjoy the opportunity to push themselves, work up a sweat and maintain a healthy, exercise regime throughout their pregnancy. 

Preggi Bellies instructors are trained to stringent standards and not only possess a deep understanding of pregnancy, childbirth and the challenges and needs of pregnant women, but are well versed in various pregnancy conditions such as Pelvic Instability and sacra-illiac joint problems.

Many women who enter the Preggi Bellies program have pre-existing medical conditions or physical limitations, or may develop other pregnancy complications. In a large percentage of these instances, especially in the case of Pelvic Instability, Preggi Bellies instructors are able to modify the moves and exercises to suit women suffering from such conditions and guide them through their exercise routine from beginning to end of pregnancy, as well as their post natal return.

Pregnancy does not have to mean loss of fitness, body shape and strength. You CAN work through your pregnancy and come out the other side with not only a beautiful baby but a strong, healthy post natal body and plenty of energy to jump right back into your exercise regime.