A Willetton mother is urging mums who have recently had a baby to take part in the City of Canning’s postnatal exercise program at Riverton Leisureplex.
Renae Fernandez gave birth to her second daughter Ottilie six months ago, and wanted to get back into exercise.
Riverton Leisureplex offers a Mums and Cubs class, with exercises guided by a qualified postnatal coach suitable for babies between eight weeks and 18 months.
Ms Fernandez said the classes were crucial not only for fitness, but for keeping mentally healthy.
“It can be incredibly hard to find time to exercise after having a baby,” she said.
“I’ve been doing the classes or a couple of months and It’s great that you can bring your baby along and you don’t have to worry about finding a baby-sitter or booking into a creche.
“I think it’s a good way to get back into exercise after having a baby and it’s good to have something set that you can get out of the house to do each week.
“I found it really helpful to make this my one thing I always go to, then I know I’ve done some exercise, I’ve managed to get out of the house, the baby has come and had a play and seen other babies.”
She said the social aspect of interacting with other mothers was also an added bonus of the classes.
“I can’t recommend it highly enough,” she said.
“We have a chat, everyone is going through the same thing, it’s a good social catchup and we hang around and have a coffee afterwards as well.”
Riverton Leisureplex is offering free trials of the postnatal classes on April 4 and 11, between 9.30am to 10.15am.
The full term commences on May 2, and details are available on the City of Canning’s website.
