Preparing for parenthood

Exercise classes

Exercising in pregnancy is important for lots of great reasons:

good blood flow - the increased oxygen is passed on to your baby
releasing "happy hormones"
preparing your body for late pregnancy when you will carry that extra weight
preparing your body for labour (it's not called labour for nothing!)
keeping your muscles toned so that they will recover more quickly and get you back into your jeans after birth!

But the best reason of all is the chance to meet up and get to know other pregnant mums. It's fun seeing everyone else's bump and helps you to feel more normal (rather than the fat one in the office), and everyone is usually very friendly as you are all in the same boat and happy to talk aches and pains. Also, these are the same mums you'll meet in postnatal exercise classes and you'll see them around town: at the doctor's, the supermarket, toddler groups and so on. It's the start of feeling part of a new community.

Of course check with your doctor before you start, but as long as you don't choose horse riding or ice hockey and just be sensible you will be fine. All these classes are run especially for pregnant or postnatal women - if you go to any other classes tell them you are pregnant so they can tell you which exercises to avoid.

Types of classes

Yoga

This is a lovely exercise for pregnancy, although it is recommended that you don't start in the first 12 weeks. The gentle stretching doesn't put undue pressure on your already stretching ligaments and the breathing exercises will stand you in good stead for labour. The relaxation element will help you sleep, and the resulting "opening" of body and mind makes more room in your body for your baby and takes the weight off an over-burdened spine.

Aquanatal

Think of a mixture between aerobics and synchronised swimming. Really nice to do in pregnancy as the water supports your body and yet the water resistance tones you up nicely. Also the water helps you wake up enough to finish the class! It may be hard to motivate yourself to go especially on winter evenings but you'll always come out feeling happier and with more energy.

Active Birth

Active Birth classes are based on using yoga to strengthen your body and gain confidence in preparing for birth. You will learn how to use breathing and relaxation to relieve stress, and to reduce the strains of pregnancy by improving your posture and circulation. The classes aim to give you a general sense of well-being and an increase in confidence as you approach the birth of your baby.

All the exercises are gentle, safe and easy to follow, and are suitable for any stage read more