Antenatal exercise in water (Aquanatal)

Aquanatal class are held in the water and last about 45 minutes. It starts with a warm up to loosen your body and get your blood flowing. Then there is an aerobic section, followed by some muscle strengthening exercises and then the well earned cool down and relaxation part. Don’t worry if it is new to you because it is easy to follow and I adapt the exercises for all levels of fitness. Hopefully you will feel lighter, more energized and happy after the classes!

There is lots of research to show that aquanatal classes are great for pregnant women. Here are some of those research findings:
  Improved circulation for mother and baby Less backache, varicose veins and leg cramps Better posture Possible control of excess weight gain Enhanced psychological well being Improved sleep patterns Increased body awareness A beneficial effect on the course and outcome of labour Enhanced self-images and confidence
 

Aquanatal is suitable for some women as soon as pregnancy is confirmed and for other women it is more suitable at the beginning of the second trimester. Bumpfit follows the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) guidelines of Exercise in Pregnancy 2006. (www.rcog.org.uk/womens-health/clinical-guidance/exercise-pregnancy)

The aquanatal classes are now open for postnatal women. You can come to the classes after your 6 week check if you have had a vaginal birth, your bleeding has stopped and you feel up to it. After a section birth, like any major surgery, you'll need to wait for 10-12 weeks after your baby's birth. If you have any queries talk to your GP or myself. Babies are able to be in their carseat at the side of the pool but you are responsible for them all the time. Babies can go into the creche from 12 weeks old.

The benefits postnatally are huge. It is a gentle way to support your body which is still influenced by pregnancy hormones. It is a great way to work on the ab muscles, back pain, and general aches and pains. It is also fantastic for your mental health as it is well known that exercise helps lift mood and it will give you space to be yourself.

Please contact me if you have any queries or worries regarding aquanatal or if you think that you have any health issues that you think would mean it is not suitable for you but you still want to attend.