Providing you have had a normal delivery, you can usually start Pilates from around 6-8 weeks after the birth. If you have had a c-section then it could take up to five months before you are able to join a class.

The "Rec" Test

Before joining a Pilates class you or your GP need to perform the "Rec Test". Separation of the rectus abdominus muscle (diastasis recti) occurs in a lot of women towards the end of pregnancy.

To check whether your rectus abdominus has rejoined you can perform the following test on yourself:

• Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor.
• Place two fingers (vertically) just below your navel
• Now pressing your fingers into your tummy, lift your head and shoulders off the floor.