Ashford Leisure Trust - The Julie Rose Stadium
Antenatal Yoga Classes - Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start Antenatal Yoga Classes?
It is recommended that you start Antenatal Yoga classes once you enter the second
trimester of pregnancy, anytime after 14 weeks.
When should I stop Antenatal Yoga Classes?
You can keep attending classes until your due date (or past it, if you go overdue). It is quite
safe to keep exercising gently until the birth of your baby. You can repeat the 10 week
course as many times as you wish. If you fail to re-new the course, you may go onto a
waiting list.
Do I need previous experience of yoga?
No, you don't need to have practised yoga before or even to have any knowledge of it.
Antenatal Yoga is specially designed for pregnancy so it is suitable for everyone, no matter
what their level of fitness.
What do I need to know before I start Antenatal Yoga?
As each class will have a mix of women at different stages of pregnancy, there will be a
range of exercises in each class and you may find that you enjoy some more than others.
Take everything to your own pace. If you ever feel that you don't want to take part in an
exercise, you can sit or stand and focus on your baby for a few minutes.
You'll be asked to complete a Health Questionnaire before your first class. If you have any
health problems that you did not mention on your health questionnaire or if you find any
movement uncomfortable, please advise your teacher.
During pregnancy, your ligaments are softened and you should take care not to overstretch
any of your joints. In Antenatal Yoga, small movements can be as effective as larger
movements. You should move into each stretch as far as feels right for you.
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Ashford Leisure Trust - The Julie Rose Stadium
Breathing is crucial throughout all Antenatal Yoga exercises, as it is in life! Usually, we
breathe out on a releasing type movement, as this is good preparation for labour. But if you
feel more comfortable breathing differently, this is fine.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable and loose fitting clothes.
What do I need to bring with me to Antenatal Yoga?
Yoga mats and blocks, are provided, but bring along a blanket and two small cushions for
extra comfort, and a drink to keep you hydrated during the session.
I have a problem with my back/pelvis - can I do yoga?
Yes, you'll be asked to complete a health questionnaire at or before your first class so
please make sure that you provide full details. The yoga movements in Antenatal Yoga
classes can be adapted for women with back or pelvic problems and you'll be able to join in
the whole class.
My baby is in a breech/posterior position, can yoga help?
Yoga may well help your baby to move into a better position and you will have the chance to
try out a range of movements that can help with Optimal Foetal Positioning (getting your
baby into the best possible position for birth).
Why are classes booked in a block rather than run as drop-ins?
Booking classes as a block means that we can keep class sizes small and can plan lessons
to meet the needs of the women who are coming. This is much more difficult with drop-in
sessions where numbers can be high. If you have a particular need, for example, a problem
with your pelvis or a wish to know more about birthing positions, you can mention this to your
teacher who will do their best to ensure that your needs are met.
Block bookings mean that classes will never be cancelled due to lack of demand and you
can be certain that you won't turn up one week to find the class isn't running. It also allows
you to get to know the other pregnant women in class with you over the weeks and to make
new friends.
I've paid for a block of classes - what if I can't make a class?
If you know in advance that you will be unable to attend a class, you may be able to carry
forward a credit for that class to your next block. However, in general classes should all be
paid for in advance as costs are incurred even if no-one comes to a lesson!
What happens if my due date is in the middle of a block of classes?
Towards the end of your pregnancy, you can pay per class rather than paying for a block of
classes as we realise that you may need more flexibility and you definitely don't want to pay
for classes that you know you can't attend. You are still welcome to come to classes on and
even beyond your due date.
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Ashford Leisure Trust - The Julie Rose Stadium
Should I tell my GP / Midwife I am attending antenatal yoga classes?
It is advisable to consult your GP or Midwife before beginning yoga during pregnancy. If you
have any chronic or recurring conditions such as high blood pressure, neck or back pain,
and so on, seek your GP’s advice before practicing. Please inform the teacher of any such
conditions or injuries when you complete the health questionnaire before the start of the
course.
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