A WESTBURY mum has launched a fitness class with a difference for new mums – one that requires no childcare arrangements as their newborn baby is a crucial piece of exercise equipment for the class!
Launched by Lucy Parker earlier this month, Mumbod Fitness involves mothers exercising with their baby strapped to them in a sling or a carrier. The class is taught by Lucy, who is joined by her nine-month-old son, who ‘teaches’ alongside her, strapped in his carrier.
“You wear your baby in a carrier or sling for the class, which focuses on body conditioning, muscular strength and endurance,” explains Lucy. “For the class we use free weights, and do exercises like squats or shoulder presses. And with your baby strapped to you, there’s an additional challenge, as they add an extra 3-10 kilos, meaning you work that little bit harder. The class can be tailored to any level of fitness – so some mums use lighter weights, or start using body weight.
“I’ve called the class ‘Mumbod Fitness’ as I want to turn something that is seen as a negative into a positive. ‘Dadbods’ are seen as the most attractive physiques to women, but ‘mumbods’ are seen more negatively.
“We have grown a baby, grown a new life inside of us, so we should be proud of our bodies and feel strong about who we are – ‘mumbods’ should be seen as something positive.
“Also, it can be quite lonely and isolating as a new mum, so these classes are an opportunity to meet other like-minded mums and make new friends.”
Lucy was inspired to start the class when she struggled to find any groups or fitness classes in the area, travelling to Bowerhill in Melksham instead, to access the support that she needed. After completing a fitness qualification in April and attending a sling peer support course, Lucy was ready to launch Mumbod Fitness.
“I’m not your typical ‘ripped’ personal trainer, but I’ve always enjoyed exercise and I have found that it has really enhanced my life. I hope that I am relatable and approachable to other mums and can show that you can be into fitness at any size and any stage of life.”
The classes are currently being trialled at Leighton Recreation Centre on Thursday mornings, but Lucy expects the classes to continue. “The first class was really good and there were lots of positive comments and there has been a lot of interest. So I am hopeful that the classes will continue once the trial ends in mid-July.”
For more information about Mumbod Fitness, contact Lucy on 07779 165329 or email: mumbod fitness@outlook.com
Above: Lucy Parker (front) and her nine-month-old son lead a Mumbod Fitness class at Leighton Recreation Centre.
