Your pregnancy is a time when you may become more concerned about your own health and how it may affect your unborn child. Research indicates both risks and benefits associated with aerobic exercise during pregnancy. For most women in good health, regular exercise can have many benefits and is encouraged!
Some good-for-you exercise benefits during pregnancy
- Increases energy level
- Reduces heart rate
- Improves posture
- Reduces or eliminates lower back pain
- Reduces or eliminates excess weight gain
- Improves self-esteem and body awareness
- Improves blood flow and oxygen levels
- Helps you recover faster from labor
Why is water exercise especially helpful during pregnancy?
Water exercise is recommended because it is non-weight bearing and easier on your body as you undergo the many changes during pregnancy. Many women also find the interaction and support from other expectant mothers in the class to be both enjoyable and reassuring! Deanna, Valley Fitness Center’s experienced instructor, has been teaching Prenatal Water Fitness (PWF) for more than eight years. She says her favorite part of teaching PWF is seeing the friendships made in class and the women who have an “easier” labor. PWF differs from regular Water Fitness classes, because there is no twisting, jumping or jarring movements.
What does Valley’s Prenatal Water Fitness class include?
Valley’s Lifestyle Medicine and Fitness Center features a 4-foot deep, 85 degree, 25-yard lap pool used for Prenatal Water Fitness twice per week! This therapeutic class includes low-level aerobics, gentle stretching, muscle conditioning and relaxation exercises. Class ends with relaxation in our 99 degree therapy pool, safe for mother and baby.
How do you get started with Prenatal Water Aerobics classes?
Prenatal Water Fitness classes run for four weeks and are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 PM. Before starting with classes, make sure that you are aware of how your body feels in the water and consult your physician, then complete an enrollment form. If you have a high risk pregnancy, you will also need to fill out a physician’s clearance. All payment is done online. Get more info or register here.
You are welcome to contact The Fitness Center at 425.656.4006 if you have any questions about the program. We look forward to helping you to stay active and healthy during your pregnancy!
Special notice for women carrying multiples
Please note that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), as well as the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), do not advise exercise during multiple gestation pregnancy.
Valley’s Fitness Center adheres to both ACOG and ACSM guidelines for participation in Fitness Center activities. Therefore, for the health and safety of those carrying twins or other multiple pregnancies, the Prenatal Water Fitness program is not available. However, we may be able to offer other exercise options within Fitness Center guidelines and in conjunction with your physician’s clearance.
