This Mum Moves is an educational programme which aims to empower women to make informed physical activity choices throughout pregnancy and beyond by providing professionals with the tools to discuss physical activity during the childbearing years.
The programme has been co-produced by women and professionals, piloted in five areas of England, and evaluated independently over the last three years. From 2022, it will be delivered with The Active Pregnancy Foundation and the Institute of Health Visiting (iHV).
WALX Kennet Valley has partnered with TMM, and Janine is a qualified Ambassador.
Together with Sport in Mind, Berkshire Get Active, The Active Pregnancy, and the Institute of Health Visiting, we want to improve pregnant women’s and new mothers’ physical and mental well-being by reducing the decline in physical activity levels during and after pregnancy.
Staying active during pregnancy is beneficial for you and your baby. It can reduce the risk of complications, improve mood and energy levels, lead to better sleep, increase strength and endurance, and promote weight management.
It can also reduce discomfort, help prepare for labour, and contribute to faster postpartum recovery. Engaging in activities like Nordic Walking can create a special bond between you and your baby.
Nordic walking, or as we call it, Total Body WALX, is an exceptional, low-impact, full-body exercise perfect for prenatal and postpartum women. It is a specialised form of walking that involves using walking poles, which helps to engage the upper body muscles while taking pressure off the knees and lower back. This is ideal for pregnant women who want to maintain their fitness level without putting too much strain on their joints.
Total Body WALX (TBW) is proven to help post-partum women regain their fitness level and strengthen their core muscles after giving birth. It also significantly improves posture and balance, which is particularly beneficial during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Walking is a very much undermined activity, but it ticks all the boxes to be effective. It is easily accessible, inclusive for all, and is a fabulous way to bond the family with a healthy, active life from a very young age.
Being outdoors has added benefits, too. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can positively impact mental health. Fresh air can help raise oxygen levels in the brain and increase serotonin levels, which can help reduce anxiety and stress and improve mood. Getting outside and enjoying nature can be a simple way to improve mental well-being and feel more relaxed and refreshed. So, whether you are pregnant or not, it’s always a good idea to take some time to get outdoors and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and nature.
Staying active during pregnancy can be fun, and Total Body WALX is a great way to do it. Walking with the Velocity poles can add a new dimension to your walking routine, making it more engaging and challenging. TBW in a group can also be a social activity that allows you to meet new people and make friends with other pregnant women. Moreover, being outdoors and enjoying nature while walking can be a refreshing and fun experience, which can help redu
ce stress levels and improve your mood.
Our new WALX Bumps and Babies sessions are now available, and the #TMM with Sports in Mind will start on 17th May at 10am at Prospect Park.
Session Advice:
- Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and walking shoes with grippy, sturdy soles.
- Wearing a bum bag with a water bottle or hydration pack is advisable.
- We supply the poles; strapless Total Body WALX Velocity poles with ergonomic handle.
- Fully insured and qualified staff
- We use open spaces with parking, a cafe and facilities
It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any exercise routine during pregnancy or after having your baby.
Further resources
How You Can Be More Active During Your Pregnancy
How You Can Be More Active After Childbirth
Ask your healthcare professional today about how you can be active during your pregnancy.
Join the movement! #ThisMumMoves