The Best Antenatal Clubs Near You
Having a baby can be a daunting time. Your body is changing rapidly, your hormones are going through the roof and you’re constantly worried if what you’re experiencing is ‘normal’. Then, once you get through that nine-month gauntlet, there’s just the small task of raising an actual human.
The concerns surrounding pregnancy and child-rearing can be harder to bear if there is no one to talk to. If your friends are still cocktail-swilling singles, they’ll find it hard to assuage your pre-baby anxieties.
You need a group of parents all going through the same thing. And a helpful expert to answer all of your questions.
That’s where antenatal clubs come in. Meaning ‘before birth’, antenatal sessions offer expectant parents advice on staying healthy during pregnancy, birth plans and feeding the baby.
Classes tend to be informal and fun – they are a great way to make fellow parent friends!
England
1. London
Bump and Baby Club offer classes both north and south of the river in a wide range of locations. They take a maximum of 10 couples per class which creates a more informal atmosphere. With a motto of ‘we don’t preach’, they make every effort to make the experience fun. A girl’s tea, partners drinks and reunion are all included in the package.
2. Manchester
The Daisy Foundation Active Antenatal classes aim to incorporate the breathing-centric rituals of yoga into your birth plan. All the classes combine traditional ante-natal elements with education on breathing, movement work, relaxation and hypnosis. A must for any die-hard yogis or those seeking a stress-free labour.
3. Birmingham
These Birmingham aquanatal classes provide a women-only haven where you can work on strengthening the core muscles you’ll use in labour through exercising in a pool. All classes are led by a qualified midwife. Expect music, laughter and lots of camaraderie with other mums-to-be.
Scotland
4. Glasgow
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Zest Mama Pre-Natal Fitness helps to keep expectant mums fit in the run up to pregnancy. The focus is on strengthening the pelvis and spine (which take most of the pressure during labour) while also maintaining a healthy weight – as well as a positive mental outlook.
5. Edinburgh
Edinburgh Birth and Baby is a one-stop shop for all your pre-natal needs. Offering counselling, pregnancy and baby massage, Daisy Foundation active ante-natal classes as well as reflexology and information on hypnobirthing, this centre will prove to be an invaluable resource for you and your partner.
Wales
6. Cardiff
You’ll also find the wonderful Daisy Foundation ante-natal classes in Cardiff. They take place in the Penylan Community Centre. Relax, unwind and tone with a group of like-minded women.
Northern Ireland
7. Belfast
Claire’s Pure Pilates in Belfast have some of the city’s most popular ante-natal classes. You’ll learn how to exercise safely and efficiently during and after pregnancy and how to relieve the various muscular aches you may be experiencing – all while strengthening your core. Plus, you’ll make friends with other mums-to-be on the same journey.
To find out more information to help you through your pregnancy and beyond, follow FREZYDERM’s blog.
