Aquanatal classes in Knowsley bring expectant mums together

This group of ladies had never met before until they started aqua-natal classes at Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park. Now they are firm friends after setting up a WhatsApp mobile messaging group and meeting regularly to swap stories and tips, supporting each other throughout their pregnancies. As well as enjoying gentle exercise tailored to their individual fitness levels and any pregnancy aches and pains, the women say the classes have put them in touch with an invaluable support network of local mums and mums-to-be. Now the ladies meet up regularly and swap messages throughout the day and night offering support and sharing experiences. They meet regularly for coffee and are looking forward to taking part in post-natal sessions once all their babies have arrived. Rachael Rimmer, who is expecting her first baby in September, said: “I was really keen to do aqua-natal sessions because I wanted to keep up with exercise while I was pregnant but wanted something that was safe and not too demanding. “These sessions have been fantastic – you feel great afterwards – but the best thing has been making so many friends who are always there to offer support and help either in person or at the other end of the phone.” Some of the ladies on the course had not done any exercise previously – while others were regularly working out before their pregnancies. The instructors at the centre have been able to tailor make the sessions to suit those taking part – advising the ladies on particular exercises to avoid or to concentrate on to alleviate their particular pregnancy related conditions. The aqua-natal sessions began in March at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park in Huyton and Halewood Leisure Centre. They are being piloted by Knowsley Council’s Leisure Services after similar sessions for expectant mums, once run by the local midwifery service ceased a few years ago. Once their babies are born they can continue with the sessions for some ideal post-natal exercise, as well as taking their babies along to Swim a Song sessions. The aqua-natal sessions are free for anyone referred by a Knowsley Community Midwife – and Rachael says she cannot recommend them enough. “I’ve been telling everyone I know about the sessions,” she says. “If you’re interested, make sure you ask your midwife for details and she will put you in touch.” More information about aqua-natal classes can also be found at www.activeknowsley.com or by calling 0151 443 2200.