Some moves for expectant moms

While yoga classes for pregnant women are commonplace, Pilates has been slower to catch on.

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‘Pilates for Pregnancy’: Melinda Bryan, owner of the Pilates Studio of Los Angeles, made the video “Pilates for Pregnancy” while pregnant with her third child. Bryan, a physical therapist by training, credits Pilates for a quick bounce-back after each baby. Bryan’s video includes basic Pilates stretching and strengthening moves for beginners, as well as more advanced techniques. Some exercises are done on the back, which many doctors do not recommend after the fifth month of preganancy, but there are modifications for those. Dr. Mona Shangold, a Philadelphia obstetrician-gyneclogist, said lying on the back may be unsafe because the pressure from the uterus decreases the blood supply going to the heart. Shangold recommends that pregnant women consult with their doctors before beginning any exercise program.

Price: “Pilates for Pregnancy” ($19.95) isavailable on DVD or VHS at www.pilatestherapy.com or by calling (310) 659-1077.

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-- Jeannine Stein