Tips for Bringing Your Baby to a Postnatal Pilates Class

Bringing your baby to postnatal Pilates class can be a great way to ease back into exercise after giving birth without the complications of needing a babysitter or trying to figure out feeds! However, it can also be quite daunting, especially if it's your first time and your bub is still quite young. Here at Articulate we want to make sure leaving the house with your bub is an enjoyable experience - and ensure that you have everything you need to make you and bub comfortable. Here are our tips for making the experience as smooth as possible!

Pack Wisely
Firstly, make sure you bring everything you might need for your baby. This includes nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, formula and bottles (if needed), a blanket to lay on, toys to keep them entertained and anything else you think they might need. It's better to be safe than sorry, but never fear, other mums are always happy to help if you forget something important.

Also remember to bring anything you need for you. In the early days a spare top and some breast pads are often vital. Nothing is worse than trying to exercise covered in spit up or leaking! 

We also recommend bringing a carrier if you have one as this can help you to do exercises hands free if bub wants to be held all class. We recommend a buckle carrier rather than a stretchy wrap or ring sling. You want to make sure that bub is safe and secure as you move so having a carrier that is supportive and fits well is key.

Don't Expect too Much
Secondly, keep your expectations low. It's likely that your baby will spend most of the class eating or trying to fall asleep (or switching between the two), and that's perfectly normal. Don't expect to get a full workout in! Instead, focus on enjoying the time spent with your little one, getting out of the house and chatting to other mums and being gentle with yourself as you ease back into exercise.

Leave Home Early
Thirdly, give yourself plenty of time to get there. Babies are notorious for deciding they're hungry or needing a change right as you're trying to walk out the door. Arriving rushed and stressed is not going to set you up for a relaxing class! Aim to arrive at least 10 minutes early so you can get yourself and your baby settled, and build some extra time in for unexpected delays. Here at Articulate we are super lucky to have a coffee shop right next door, and new mums could nearly always do with some extra caffeine.

Stick it Out
Finally, know that it will get easier. The first few postnatal Pilates classes might be a bit of a challenge, but stick with it and things will start to become more familiar (and less stressful!) in no time. Soon, you'll be wondering why you ever found it difficult in the first place, and will be able to give a knowing smile to the new mums in the next round arriving looking a little overwhelmed and wondering how they're going to get any exercise in.
​
Our Tarragindi Postnatal Pilates Classes are the perfect way to rehab and build strength post birth, and a lovely low pressure way to meet other mamas! We have intakes starting every few weeks - get in touch if you want to find out more! Call us on 07 3706 3407 or email [email protected] - our Tarragindi Physiotherapists would love to meet you and your little one :)