Pre-natal fitness classes for moms-to-be in Vancouver
Pregnancy is an exciting and busy time. Between choosing a name, prepping the nursery and getting started on early college applications, it’s easy to forget that you're caring for two – and that you're one of those two. Take some time for yourself at a pre-natal fitness class. From yoga to aquafit, these Vancouver studios are tailored for moms-to-be. [Photo credit: iStock.com/gilaxia]
Fit 4 Two, Prenatal Barre
1 Athletes Way, Vancouver BC V5Y 0B1Fit 4 Two offers a variety of pre- and post-natal fitness programs at a number of Vancouver locations. In the Downtown/False Creek area, moms-to-be can drop in or sign up for multiple pre-natal barre classes with Fit 4 Two founder Melanie Osmack at the Creekside Community Recreation Centre. As in regular barre classes, this ballet-inspired workout focuses on posture, core strength and flexibility. As a standard precaution, you’re required to fill out a PARmed-X for Pregnancy Form, signed by your doctor or midwife, before taking this class.
Bare Fit and Pregnant
3668 Broadway W, Vancouver BC V6R 2B7Professional trainer Susi Kerr has been helping women enjoy healthier pregnancies for years. Her Bare Fit programs help expectant mothers stay fit in a way that is safe and effective for their changing bodies. The classes also act as a supportive community environment for women going through the same changes and challenges. Pre-natal classes are offered twice a day, three days a week in one-hour sessions. All fitness levels are welcome.
form Body Lab Ltd
310-1152 Mainland St, Vancouver BC V6B 4X2Before you were pregnant, strong abs and pelvic floor muscles may or may not have been important to you. But with childbirth on the horizon, these muscles are about to be called on in a big way, so this is a good time to get them fit. The yoga and Pilates classes at Form Body Lab emphasize core and pelvic floor strength to help you prepare to give birth (and to promote quicker recovery afterwards).
Fit 4 Two, Prenatal AquaFit
6121 University Blvd, Vancouver BC V6T 1Z1AquaFit provides a safe, no-impact workout and a great opportunity for pregnant women to get off their feet and enjoy the sensation of weightlessness, even if it's only for one hour a week. Instructor Dee Clarke leads the Vancouver Westside Fit 4 Two aquafit class at UBC, guiding moms-to-be through gentle cardio, strength training and flexibility exercises. Bring a signed PARmed-X for Pregnancy form prior to joining – and your own towel.
Semperviva Yoga
110-2201 4th Avenue W, Vancouver BC V6K 1N9Pregnant women of all fitness levels and yoga experience can benefit from the safe and supportive environment at Semperviva Yoga's pre-natal classes. Yoga and breathing techniques help to strengthen and prepare your changing body for childbirth, with a focus on the pelvic muscles, hips and legs. Improved circulation and flexibility, as well as the ability to connect with other moms-to-be, make these yoga classes a valuable asset during pregnancy.
Roundhouse Arts & Recreation Centre
181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver BC V6Z 2W3Yaletown's vibrant Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre is home to a wide variety of programs and classes that bring residents of this densely populated area together. Meet with other moms-to-be at one of the centre's pre-natal programs, including a pre-natal Pilates class for women. Drop-in classes are $13 each and last 45 minutes with discounts available if you commit for multiple classes. The focus here is on core strength and the traditional lengthening and strengthening benefits of Pilates, adapted to the needs of pregnant women.
Open Door Yoga Inc
4-175 15th Ave E, Vancouver BC V5T 2P6Take some time for yourself, and your growing baby, and enjoy a supportive and restorative pre-natal yoga class at Open Door Yoga. Designed to help prepare women both physically and emotionally for the challenges and rewards of pregnancy and childbirth, these gentle classes are adapted to best suit expectant moms. Breathing, yoga postures, meditations and visualizations combine for a healthy and relaxing experience.
