NEW classes specifically designed to provide women with post-natal exercise to aid recovery after birth have been launched in Chester and the surrounding area.

Single parent Katie Simon, who is the owner of Sweaty Mama Chester, says the sessions enable mums to build support networks and friendships.

Having suffered from depression and anxiety throughout her pregnancy and after birth, Katie understands just how important safe exercise can be for new mums for not only their physical health but more importantly – their mental wellbeing.

The classes, which started today (July 19), take place at the following locations:

  • Vicars Cross Community Centre – Monday at 11.30am
  • Tarvin Community Centre – Tuesday at 10am
  • Dale Barracks – Tuesday at 1pm
  • Rossett Village Hall – Wednesday at 10.30am
  • Farndon Community Club – Wednesday at 1pm
  • Mickle Trafford Village Hall – Thursday at 9.30am
  • Holy Trinity Church, Blacon – Friday at 9.30am

Classes are focused on having fun, bonding with their child whilst enhancing their cardiovascular fitness, strength and tone in the key areas after birth through aerobic, resistance led and floor work.

The children are able to benefit from social interaction with the other children as well as the security and closeness from their 'Mama'.

Here is Katie's story: "I was born and raised in Chester and left to travel when I was 19. Whilst abroad I have worked for many years as a holiday rep and then moved in to hotel management in the Caribbean.

"I returned 13 years later when my daughter was 14 months old and a single mum. I struggled to find a job that would allow me to use my skills and still be able to spend time with my daughter. Then the pandemic hit.

"I saw an advert on Facebook one day for a franchise opportunity with Sweaty Mama where I could build a business around my daughter, take her to work with me and help other mums become part of a community and get fit after childbirth, and I jumped at the chance.

"I suffered badly with depression and anxiety throughout pregnancy and after and know how important safe exercise is for mums to not only get physically healthy but more importantly mentally healthy, and not having to worry about childcare is massive.

"I am so happy to start building this community and helping as many mamas as possible meet each other, exercise safely and keep their bodies and minds healthy and strong.

"In the coming months I will be continuing my training and will be offering female only fun bootcamps and also Mamilates with bump, Mamilates with baby and Mamilates 'me' time."