COCOON AND BLOOM

Cocoon Aquanatal Exercise

These midwife led Aquanatal classes combine a safe level of exercise in pregnancy with the supportive effect of water, whilst also being fun. This perfect combination helps to prepare you mentally and physically for labour, boosts your stamina for daily life and labour, helps you keep fit in pregnancy, and can improve your posture, balance, and abdominal and back strength. This can all take place whilst the support of the water decreases the stress on your joints.

Being in the water can feel very comfortable in pregnancy, as the extra weight of your bump is supported by the water. Aquanatal classes can bring about an enhanced sense of well-being and can reduce stress levels by an increase of endorphins, and promote relaxation. Exercise in pregnancy can also boost levels of serotonin which can help to improve sleep patterns (which can be welcome relief if you are struggling to get a good night's sleep).

Through gentle cardiovascular exercise and pregnancy-appropriate stretches, improved circulation can relieve swelling to your ankles and feet, and can lead to an improved and faster recovery after birth.

​Any level of fitness or swimming ability is welcome (including non-swimmers). Classes take place in the shallow-end, so you will be able to stand up at all times. Should you wish to book on to the classes, you will be asked to complete a screening questionnaire. This is based on recommendations from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as there may be pre-existing or pregnancy-induced contraindications requiring medical advice.

You will also have the opportunity to meet other mums-to-be, helping to create a wonderful support network as you embark on this exciting journey to parenthood.