qualife Swimming
Aqua Natal
"We believe that it’s not enough just to learn to swim, we want to inspire our swimmers to love the water."
Antenatal Swimming
Bond with your bump, maintain your fitness and learn to breathe your way to a confident and positive birth experience, aqua style!
Aqualife Swimming’s specially designed swim courses offer a holistic experience focusing on strengthening exercises, adapted swimming methods, relaxation and birthing breathing techniques.
Swimming is one form of exercise that can be continued through every stage of pregnancy.
Modifications to stroke technique, distance and intensity can be easily made so that each woman gains benefit from their water experience.
The wash of the water over the mother’s body as they move through the water will ensure that she does not overheat whilst exercising. Due to the cooling effect of water, swimming can be sustained for a longer period of time than exercise which is land based.
The massaging and supporting effect of the water will help to relieve stress and reduce blood pressure, as the water pressure assists the blood to circulate around the body. This can result in less swelling of the hands and feet and also helps to relieve lower back pain as the weight of the growing baby is supported by the water.
The feeling of well-being and weightlessness that comes from the time spent in the water gives total relaxation to the mother and baby!
“Throughout both of my pregnancies I found that being in the water was extremely beneficial to my body. The coolness of the water ensured that I didn’t over heat, the gentle swimming kept my body strong and prepared for birth, I felt supported and relaxed and most of all my baby loved being in the water!"
"I went on to have two fantastic water births; implementing the same breathing techniques as I did whilst swimming was incredibly beneficial during my labour. This has inspired me to become an STA Antenatal Swimming Instructor and pass on these techniques to create a special bonding experience for you and your baby.”
Penny Watkins, Founder & Instructor, Aqualife Swimming.
Benefits of Antenatal Swimming:
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The water supports the woman’s changing body shape
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Ensures that the woman does not overheat whilst exercising
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Helps to relieve stress
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Reduces blood pressure
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Strengthens the abdominal muscles
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Strengthens back muscles
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A Fun and Social activity
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Improves circulation
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Improves muscular strength and endurance
Look out for our special 6 week antenatal swim courses! If you are interested in a course or need any advice on Antenatal Swimming please contact us – we will be happy to help!