Squats during pregnancy: why squat when pregnant…

Squats are a hugely beneficial exercise to perform throughout pregnancy and can be continued right up to birth. TFR director Yasmin has trained countless women throughout their pregnancies, including herself up to days before giving birth. Here are 3 of her top reasons for squatting when pregnant…

1) When performed correctly, squats require you to fully brace your core. When you brace, multiple muscles work together to stabilise and protect the spine. The main muscles working are the transversus abdominis, the pelvic floor, and the multifidus muscle which runs through the spine. These muscles each play critical roles throughout pregnancy, labour and for postpartum recovery; from helping to support your changing centre of gravity and therefore reducing back pain, to building strength required for pushing during labour and to minimise the risk of stress incontinence after birth.

2) Squats help to widen and improve the mobility of the pelvic opening. They also encourage the baby to engage deeper into the pelvis later in pregnancy. These combined can result in faster and easier labours.

3) Squats strengthen the legs and glutes. Strong glutes can reduce the chance of SI joint pain during pregnancy whilst strong legs can help you stay more comfortable and active as your weight increases.

As with any exercise during pregnancy, it’s important to listen to your body and seek professional guidance to ensure you’re not putting yourself or your baby at risk!