How to Choose the Perfect Postnatal Fitness Class for You and Your New Baby

Congratulations on your new arrival! As a new mom, finding time for self-care can feel like a challenge, but it’s crucial for your well-being. Postnatal fitness classes offer a wonderful way to regain strength, improve your mood, and connect with other new moms. However, with so many options available, how do you choose the right class for you and your newborn? Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice.

1. Consider Your Fitness Goals

First and foremost, think about your personal fitness goals, lifestyle and tastes. Are you looking to rebuild core strength, increase your cardiovascular endurance, get outdoors, or simply find a way to move and stretch? Different classes focus on various aspects of fitness, so choose one that aligns with your goals. For instance:

  • Easing Back into Fitness: If you're just getting back into fitness after having your baby, look for a class with a core component. E.g Postnatal Sampler Series, Postnatal Yoga + Infant Massage
     
  • Strength and Conditioning: If you want to build muscle strength and endurance, look for classes that emphasize resistance training or bodyweight exercises. E.g. Parent & Baby Barre, Stroller Fitness, Parent & Baby Fitness, Bootcamp/Virtual Bootcamp (3 months +) 
     
  • Cardiovascular Fitness: For a heart-pumping workout, consider classes with a focus on cardio, such as dance-based or high-intensity interval training. E.g Indoor Stroller Fitness, Bootcamp/ Virtual Bootcamp (3 months+), Outdoor Stroller Fitness, Parent & Baby Fitness
     
  • Flexibility and Relaxation: If your primary goal is to stretch and de-stress, yoga or barre classes might be a great fit. E.g Postnatal Yoga + Infant Massage, Parent & Baby Barre.
     
  • Getting outside: If you'd love to take advantage of the benefits of fresh air and being in nature, look for an outdoor program. E.g. Adventure Club (3 months +), Outdoor Stroller Fitness

2. Check the Instructor’s Qualifications

The instructor’s experience and qualifications are vital, especially for postnatal fitness. Ensure that the instructor is certified in postnatal fitness and has experience working with new mothers. They should be knowledgeable about the unique needs of postnatal bodies, including diastasis recti and pelvic floor issues. It’s also helpful if they can offer modifications based on your fitness level and recovery status. All Fit Together instructors are certified pre/postnatal fitness instructors. Our team

3. Look for a Supportive Environment

Postnatal fitness classes should foster a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere. Look for a class where the instructor and participants are empathetic and understanding of the challenges new moms face. Our welcoming environment will help you feel more comfortable and motivated to attend regularly. 

4. Consider your Baby's Temperament

Think about what class format your baby may enjoy the best. Does your baby like to be in the stroller, or the baby carrier, in your arms and on the mat beside you, or maybe a mix of all those? It's great to look for a class that suits your baby. On the other hand, we know that babies are babies and will do what they need to do, and they'll grow and change along the way too. Many moms are worried babies may cry in class, but we're here to tell you that's okay and it will work out anyway. 

All Fit Together classes are structured to be very easy-going and accommodating of tending to baby's needs and moods. Our instructors are happy to modify to make the class work for you and your baby. 

5. Read Reviews and Get Recommendations

Check out reviews from other moms who have attended the classes you’re considering. Personal recommendations from friends, family, or local parenting groups can also be invaluable. Positive feedback about an instructor or class environment can give you confidence in your choice.

6. Try a Class or Two

If possible, attend a trial class or drop-in class before committing. This will give you a firsthand experience of the class dynamics, instructor style, and overall atmosphere. It’s a great way to see if the class meets your needs and feels like a good fit. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right postnatal fitness class can be a wonderful step towards reclaiming your strength and well-being as a new mom. By considering your fitness goals, the instructor’s qualifications, the class environment, and practical factors like format and content, you can find a class that supports both you and your newborn. Remember, the best class is one that makes you feel empowered, supported, and excited to keep moving!

Enjoy your fitness journey and cherish these special moments with your baby!

Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you need help finding the perfect class for you. Happy exercising! 💪👶🍂

 

Aileen & the Fit Together team

PS do you have a mobile or almost mobile baby? Check out Getting Moving with your Little Mover article for tips and tricks