Fit4Mom Midtown Raleigh will launch its
prenatal fitness classes at WakeMed North Campus starting this week. I checked in with MIssy Currin, Fit4Mom Midtown Raleigh's owner and mom of three, to learn more about the programs and how to sign up.
Go Ask Mom: Tell us about the prenatal classes you're launching at WakeMed North? Who are they designed for?
Missy Currin: I'm so thrilled to bring FIT4MOM's signature prenatal program, Prenatal FIT4BABY, to WakeMed North's campus this month! Pregnancy is a time when many of us prioritize regular check-ups, healthy eating and exercise for the first time in our lives and it truly sets the stage for the health of our whole family for years to come. Making prenatal classes more convenient and accessible for moms throughout the Triangle is a big part of our FIT4MOM mission to grow healthy families!
FIT4BABY classes are designed for expecting moms at any stage of pregnancy and are set to meet at times when first-time moms are off work and second and third-time moms have childcare and can get out for a little me time. You can start at any time during pregnancy, with your OB/midwife's clearance to exercise. Even if you're already exercising elsewhere, these classes are a great way to meet other pregnant moms and you'll likely find your first mom-tribe here!
GAM: What's a typical workout like? If an expecting mom isn't in great shape, is it still for her?
MC: Workouts last one hour and include a warm up, cardio, strength and core intervals, stretching and a meditation. Every exercise can be modified to meet you where you are in terms of your fitness level and any other pregnancy discomforts like sore wrists, balance issues, sciatic nerve pain, heartburn, etc. As long as you've been cleared to exercise by your OB/midwife, this program is for you!
GAM: How are the fitness goals of a prenatal class different from a regular workout class? It's certainly not about reducing inches from your waist or even weight loss!
MC: Such a great question! Pregnancy is not the time to exercise to lose weight or to start training for a marathon. The goals are definitely different! Prenatal FIT4BABY classes are designed to help moms get and stay strong for their delivery and beyond.
We do exercises that alleviate the discomforts and help correct the muscular imbalances that come with pregnancy. Moms also find classes to be a great time of social connection with other moms and bonding with their baby. If you're skeptical about what class might look and feel like for you, I welcome you to come try a class for free and see what you think! (Use the link at the bottom of this post.)
GAM: Why is it so important to stay in shape when you're pregnant? What are the benefits - even after you give birth?
MC: Exercise during pregnancy benefits both mom and baby. For moms, we see better control over blood sugars and weight gain, relief from the aches and pains of motherhood (constipation, backaches, swelling, etc), better sleep, elevated energy, confidence and connection.
Moms tell us they have easier and shorter labors and birth recovery and they love the support that they continue to get from their new mom-tribe as they navigate life with a newborn. Research shows that babies can experience better cardiovascular and cognitive development when their moms exercise regularly while pregnant, and we think they probably enjoy mom's exercise-induced endorphins just as much as she does!
GAM: You have these classes elsewhere in the Triangle too. Where are they scheduled and how can people find out more?
MC: We have locations in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill/Carrboro. If you're not sure what's closest or you'd like to try a free class,
fill out this form and we'll help you navigate the schedule and find a location most convenient for you.
Go Ask Mom featuresl local moms every Monday.
