Find Antenatal Classes Near You

As a pregnant mama, you might be keen to know how to prepare yourself both mentally and physically for birth and beyond.

Antenatal classes are a great option for learning about the changes in your body while pregnant. They also cover what to expect during labour and delivery, as well as how to care for your newborn. (1)

Staying physically active during pregnancy is also important for keeping you and your baby healthy.

Pregnancy activities, like yoga or pilates, are ideal: they provide a good workout but aren’t too strenuous. (Do consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise regimen during pregnancy.) (2)

Don’t worry if you’re confused about which pregnancy activities or antenatal classes near you are best.

We’ve got you covered here on Loopla! We’ve consolidated the best pregnancy classes and sorted them by activity type below.

Good for:

Pregnancy exercise
Understanding babycare
Birth preparation

Find antenatal classes

Antenatal classes near you

The New Parent Company runs antenatal classes as well as support groups around London for soon-to-be parents.

In your antenatal classes, you’ll learn about what to expect during pregnancy, childbirth and the early days with a new baby.

They’re typically led by experienced healthcare professionals, and you’ll likely meet other expecting parents too.

This will give you the chance to meet and connect with other mums-to-be who are going through the same experience.

Why do pregnant mothers go for antenatal classes?

Antenatal classes provide expectant mothers with the knowledge and tools that they need to have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. This helps to build confidence and reduce anxiety as well.

It can also be a great opportunity to meet other expectant parents and learn from each other’s experiences. (3)

When should I begin antenatal classes?

Taking classes earlier in pregnancy means that mothers-to-be will have more time to digest the information and ask questions.

The best time is usually in the second trimester. (1)

How long do antenatal classes last?

Antenatal classes usually take around 12 hours in total and will run over several weeks.

Is it worth paying for antenatal classes?

Paying for antenatal classes may be worth it if there’s a specific instructor you connect with or if you’d like further information about different birthing methods.

But there is no right or wrong answer. If you’d like to keep costs down, many hospitals and community centres offer free or low-cost classes.

Find antenatal classes

Pregnancy yoga classes near you

Some of our favourite pregnancy yoga classes include those run by Almon Yoga and Life by Margot.

These classes are a good way to get some gentle exercise and stretching in. (2)

Most classes will start with some basic breathing exercises before moving on to gentle stretches.

The stretches will focus on opening up the hips and pelvis, as well as strengthening the back and core muscles.

What is pregnancy yoga?

Pregnancy yoga is a type of yoga that is designed specifically for pregnant women. So, it will typically focus on gentle stretching and breathing exercises.

Some poses will be modified to accommodate a growing belly.

Is pregnancy yoga good?

Yoga has many benefits for pregnant women, including improved circulation, reduced stress levels and increased strength and flexibility.

Pregnancy yoga classes also provide a chance to connect with other expectant mothers.

Can I go for a normal yoga class when pregnant?

Though it is possible to attend a regular yoga class when you’re pregnant, it’s safer to choose pregnancy yoga classes. This is because there are certain poses that need to be modified to suit pregnant women (such as those that require laying on your belly).

If you do decide to attend a normal yoga class while pregnant, be sure to let your instructor know that you’re pregnant.

Pregnancy yoga classes in London

You can also check out this pregnancy yoga class in London near Forest Gate. The lessons are run by Alice Panascia, who brings a gentle yet effective yoga approach tailored to expecting mums.

Find antenatal classes

Pregnancy Pilates near you

We’re loving Life by Margot, which runs a pregnancy Pilates class in London.

Pregnancy Pilates classes are designed to be gentle and safe for pregnant women.

You’ll usually start by doing some warm-up exercises and then move on to a variety of exercises that focus on strengthening your core muscles. These exercises will help you prepare for the physical challenges of pregnancy and childbirth.

Finally, you’ll cool down with some stretches and relaxation techniques.

What is pregnancy Pilates?

Pregnancy Pilates follows the Pilates exercise technique but is tailored to pregnant women. It usually focuses on core strength, alignment and flexibility.

What are the benefits of pregnancy Pilates?

Pilates can help to improve your posture, increase your flexibility and strengthen your muscles. All of these things can help you to feel better during pregnancy and make delivery easier.

How often should I do pregnancy Pilates?

Some instructors recommended doing pregnancy Pilates two times a week, with at least one day’s rest between sessions. (4)

Pregnancy Pilates classes in London

Life by Margot runs pregnancy Pilates classes in London. The low-impact lessons focus on gentle, small and precise movements that work out the whole body.

Antenatal classes in London near you

The New Parent Company runs antenatal classes and support groups for expectant parents in London.

Find antenatal classes

FAQs

What classes can you do when pregnant?

Low-impact exercise classes are a great way to stay fit during pregnancy. This includes gentle aerobics, yoga, strength and Pilates classes that are tailored to pregnant women.

Whatever type of class you choose, be sure to check with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you and your baby.

Is antenatal the same as prenatal?

Antenatal and prenatal both refer to the period before birth during pregnancy. (5)

Should a pregnant woman eat before yoga?

Pregnant women can eat before yoga in order to maintain their energy levels and avoid light-headedness.

However, that doesn’t mean that you should eat a full meal right before class! Instead, aim for a light snack that will give you sustained energy without weighing you down. (6)

Can you lay on your stomach while pregnant when doing yoga?

No, you should not lay on your stomach while pregnant when you’re doing yoga. (7)

Taking a yoga class that is designed specifically for pregnant women can also be helpful, as instructors are familiar with which poses are safe to practise during pregnancy.

Is it OK to do Pilates while pregnant?

Pilates is a low-impact exercise and a great choice for pregnant women who want to build their core strength and flexibility.

It’s best to opt for Pilates classes that are specifically designed for pregnant women to ensure that you do the poses correctly and avoid causing harm to your baby.

What is better for pregnancy: Pilates or yoga?

Both pregnancy yoga and Pilates can help to strengthen and tone the muscles, improve flexibility and improve your overall well-being.

However, Pilates is a more focused form of exercise that often uses props and equipment, while yoga is typically a more gentle and meditative practice.

Ultimately, the best form of exercise during pregnancy is the one that you will actually stick with! (2)

Find antenatal classes