05/11/2021
Using an exercise ball in pregnancy can be a really good alternative to standing or sitting, if your feeling tired, heavy, or even during labour.
The ball helps you to keep moving the pelvis and the lower back, stretching and toning the pelvic floor, but resting the legs and, easing the effort of the movement. Particularly helpful in late pregnancy and labour.
Here are the three go to movements I would suggest to ease lower back and contraction pain, as well as assisting the baby to get into the most optimal position for labour.
1) Sit feet slightly wider than hip width apart on the ball and start to circle your hips. Repeat in the opposite direction.
2) Cat 🐈/cow🐄 on the ball. Roll your hips back, moving your chest forwards as you breath in. Roll your hips forward, tucking your pelvis and rounding your back as you exhale.
3) Roll your hips from one side to the other and back again, breathing in one side, and out the other.