Going back into a gym environment after having a baby can be quite daunting. Maybe your body just doesn’t feel the same or you’re worried about what other people might think. Here we uncover a variety of group fitness classes designed specifically for new mums
Pilates
Pregnancy, feeding and rocking a baby can cause aches and pains in your back, knees and shoulders, as well as other parts of the body. Anisha Narayan is on a mission to help mums feel strong, confident and live pain-free by building up their core and full body strength using Pilates. If you’re keen to get involved, there are two group class challenges starting this month which cater for beginners and more advanced mums.
Location: Sports City
More information: pilateswithanisha.com
Weight training
Postnatal support community The Mum Folk has recently launched group classes at Sands Fitness in Motor City. Bring your baby along and let Sublime Nursing keep them entertained as you smash through an hour-long functional fitness session led by an expert coach. You’ll start to build your strength and be motivated by your classmates to move faster, lift heavier and, above all, be the best version of yourself.
Location: Motor City
More information: @themumfolk
Yoga
The Om Moms Club offers various pre and postnatal classes, including mum and baby yoga - a fun and active session which encourages precious bonding moments. For baby, there are simple stretches to help build strength and flexibility (these can also help with relieving colic and encouraging sleep!) and for mum, the focus is on rebuilding the muscles and areas affected by pregnancy and giving birth. You’ll also connect and move with your baby using poses designed for you to do together.
Locations: Jumeirah Islands and Sports City
More information: theommomsclub.com
Compound movement
Brit Williams, a postnatal personal trainer, works with mums on a one-to-one basis and also offers seasonal group classes. Using compound movements, usually with resistance, Brit teaches women to reconnect with their bodies and recover their instincts through gradual, empowering progressions. Look out for her outdoor classes which allow you to bring baby along with you to join the fun and get a hit of Vitamin D in the winter months!
Locations: Meadows, Springs, Lakes, Jumeirah Park and Jumeirah Islands
More information: fitbritcollective.com
Core Connect
With over 7,000 hours of coaching experience and having supported 1,500 new mothers since 2015, Marianne Tafani is an expert on everything to do with the postpartum body. Her Core Connect Signature Programme is a 5-session course run which helps mums reconnect with their core, restore pelvic support, and alleviate back pain in a supportive environment. Marianne also offers tailored group reformer courses to help mums safely transition back into regular exercise that may involve impact, weights, and speed during the first 18 months postpartum.
Location: Dubai Marina
More information: @marianne.coreconnect
