Mums-to-be can now expect fun and fitness at new water exercise classes 

Aquanatal sessions are now being held for expectant mothers in Portsmouth.  The classes are on offer every week at the new Oasis Wellness Centre at Queen Alexandra Hospital, Cosham.  Julie Whitehead, Community Midwife at the Portsmouth Maternity Centre, said "We haven't had any aquanatal classes in Portsmouth for years so this is great for pregnant women.  Aquanatal is important for circulation, well-being and mother and baby.  Women are proved to have better birth outcomes with relaxation and cardiovascular exercise." 

Aquanatal is a safe form of exercise that women can do in the water during and after pregnancy.  Medics say that the exercise can also increase chances of a shorter, active labour.  It is also said to help to alleviate antenatal and postnatal depression.  Julie added "I know that there are aquanatal classes running in Gosport and up to 40 women go to them - they love it.  This is a massive positive thing for the city, getting women together to get fit and healthy and it is fun!  I hope to get as many women as possible to come along".

The classes run every Monday at the Oasis Centre, on the grounds of the hospital, from 9:30am to 11:30am.  There will be room for about 20 women on each class, which will be split up into two hour-long sessions.  The first hour will be the exercise class, and the second hour will be a question and answer session for expectant mothers and midwives. 

For information or to book contact the Portsmouth Maternity Centre on 023 9286 6562.

[Article reproduced with kind permission of The News]

8 September 2010