I had suffered from stress incontinence for many years (in my forties) and since I have been doing Pilates, it has disappeared.

Correct instruction of Pilates always incorporates and awareness of the pelvic floor musculature. Strengthening this area directly and indirectly (via fascial continuations of the adductors and TA) will no doubt have a positive effect on this issue.

In fact, I have had clients come to the studio specifically to address this.

Catherine: HI! I totally agree with you that correct instruction always includes the pelvic floor. Use of a ball or circle heightens the proprioceptive awareness of this area. That is why Kegels for most women is a mystery because they cannot feel the area without clenching the glutes.

Cathleen, I agree. Any proper core activation should be initiated through the pelvic floor which will most definitely help with incontinence.

Thanks so much for sharing Naomi. I can't tell you how women AND men that I've worked with who have suffered with this. Many women have been falsely led to believe that this is just something that they should live with. Although, I have not experienced this condition myself, I have watched my clients (I incorporate pilates into all of my training sessions) regain control of their lives through pilates.