Led by maternity staff from University Hospitals Tees, the gentle, water-based exercise sessions are suitable for women from 12 weeks’ gestation through to birth. The sessions offer a safe and enjoyable way to stay active during pregnancy.
The new aquanatal sessions will take place every Friday from 1pm to 2.30pm at the Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub in Hartlepool and cost just £3.50 per session.
Anne Marie Collighan, Senior Clinical Matron for Community Midwifery, said: “Aquanatal exercise can provide a range of benefits during pregnancy. Exercising in water helps reduce pressure on joints and muscles while providing gentle resistance to build strength and improve fitness. Water-based activity can also help ease back pain, reduce swelling, improve circulation, support mental wellbeing and promote relaxation.”
She added: “Women will be supported and guided throughout each session so they can stay healthy and enjoy exercising safely.”
Aquanatal classes can be particularly beneficial as pregnancy progresses, allowing women to remain active in a comfortable environment while connecting with other expectant mothers.
Councillor Rob Darby, chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Housing, Growth and Communities Committee, said: “These new aquanatal classes are a fantastic example of how Hartlepool Borough Council is working in partnership with University Hospitals Tees to deliver vital health and wellbeing services in the heart of our communities. Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub is much more than a leisure facility. Alongside providing high-quality sport, fitness and recreational opportunities, it is increasingly playing an important role in supporting the health and wellbeing of residents of all ages.”
He added: “By bringing these specialist maternity-led sessions into a community setting, we are helping expectant mothers access expert support in a welcoming environment while enjoying the many benefits of staying active during pregnancy. We are delighted to be working with our NHS partners to make services such as these available to local families.”
Anyone wishing to either book a place or find out more, should please contact the Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub on 01429 523338, email [email protected] or book online on the Highlight website.
