Having worked in the health and fitness industry for 19 plus years, I’m a true believer in and know the benefits of building a strong core not only to increase core strength, but to help with balance, hernia prevention, posture and the list goes on!
Pre stoma I did Pilates and post stoma I knew it was something I had to restart but incorporate slowly and gradually increasing the intensity to build on my core. Once you have been cleared by a doctor to do so, basic post surgery core Pilates exercises can be really beneficial and I have found through doing Pilates, that my core, posture and overall balance has definitely improved.
Reformer Pilates has added to my experience as it was something different for me to explore and is definitely addictive once you start. I was a bit apprehensive about joining this class as I knew there would be some moves I would have to lie on my tummy for (having a stoma bag as you may know, this was a fear for me) so I just made sure to empty my bag before the class and give it a check before lying on my tummy to make sure it wasn’t full. some exercises also included hyper extension in back which would stretch around my tummy area and others that would challenge me having my stoma bag but once I got the first few over me I have loved every minute and really look forward to going.
Pilates is an excellent way to incorporate breathing into your exercises. It teaches you how to use your breathe properly during exercise to maximise the core and get the most out of your workout. As it is also a low impact class, anyone with IBD and other conditions that may have led to getting a stoma bag, you can be reassured that you won’t be jumping around and putting extensive pressure on the bones and joints, but on the other hand, there are lots of different types of Pilates classes that have higher intensities and that include weights and other equipment so it’s just finding the one that best suits your individual needs.
Pilates not only has helped me physically but also mentally and I would definitely recommend doing this to any of my fellow ostomates as it’s an all rounder when it comes to your physical and mental well being.
