Aquanatal ® Pregnancy and Postnatal Aquatic Fitness
Frequently asked questions
What is Aquanatal® exercise?
Aquanatal exercise classes are specifically designed for mums during pregnancy and following birth. They take place in a swimming pool and are run by experienced health practitioners who are also fully qualified Aquanatal instructors. Classes include cardio and strengthening exercises, core and balance exercises, relaxation and birth preparation, as well as a good dose of fun and chat. Aquanatal is a fun, safe way to exercise and prepare yourself for the birth of your baby.
What are the benefits for me and my baby?
Joining an Aquanatal class may help you physically and emotionally during your pregnancy. Physically, it increases your levels of stamina and fitness, which might then help you achieve a shorter, more active labour. Regular pelvic floor exercises also help prepare your muscles for labour and will help prevent persistent incontinence during pregnancy and after birth. It has also been shown to relieve back pain, swelling, and many other ‘discomforts’ of pregnancy. Due to improved strength and stamina, our classes may also help with recovery after birth.
Exercise releases feel-good endorphins that can help alleviate antenatal and postnatal depression. Meeting other pregnant mums and sharing stories is a bonus. Aquanatal mums often connect outside the class and meet up after their babies are born. Many mums experience an improved nights sleep on the days they attend a class.
Dynamic Chiropractic provides Dynamic Aquanatal® classes in Sydney!
We will initially have our classes at the Southern Swim School, a wonderful pool facility in Kirrawee. Class times are currently at 7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
To make a booking, select the group session button online and select Aquanatal®. We will need your registration form, medical clearance (which must be signed by a medical practitioner that is overseeing your pregnancy/ postnatal care) and payment before you get in the water. These forms are to be downloaded from our website, alternatively you can email/call our reception with any enquiries. If there is sometime between when you have your next antenatal appointment and you feel healthy and able to participate- you can write this on your registration form and that will cover you until you are able to get your clearance filled at your next appointment.
Current Pricing
Casual Class: $38
Only available if there is space in a class
5-Class pass: 5 sessions for $160
Valid for 6 weeks
10-Class pass: 10 sessions for $290
Valid for 12 weeks
Please note that we will not issue refunds for class passes and casual class passes. Cancellations with less than 3 hours notice or no shows means the class fee will be forfeited. Credit may be used for services within the clinic or Postnatal classes - a great way to recover post birth and return to exercise! Credit will expire 4 months after the baby is born.
You may get a rebate for Aquanatal classes with your private health fund!
Claim Your Aquanatal Classes on Private Health Insurance!
Did you know many private health funds cover Aquanatal and pregnancy aqua classes under their Health Management / Health Improvement benefits? Depending on your health fund and level of Extras cover, you may be eligible to receive a rebate covering a portion (or even all) of your class fees.
Because our classes are prescribed to manage pregnancy-related conditions (like pelvic girdle dysfunction or lower back pain), all you need is a quick Health Management Form completed by your GP or Allied Health professional (like your Chiropractor). Here is more information about health funds and forms needed. Please check with your health fund as this will be dependant on your level of cover!
Comprehensive Health Fund List & Form Links
1. Medibank
-
Category: Health Support Benefits / Health Management
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Obstetricians, Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologists, Osteopaths.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years from referral date.
-
Key Requirements: Must treat or manage an existing health condition (e.g., musculoskeletal pain/back pain during pregnancy).
-
Form Link: Download Medibank Health Support Benefits Approval Form (PDF)
2. ahm Health Insurance
-
Category: Health Management Program / Health Improvement
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Specialists, Allied Health Providers.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Doctor or allied health practitioner must complete Part B confirming it is recommended for a specific health/pregnancy condition.
-
Form Link: Download ahm Health Improvement / Management Forms
3. Teachers Health & UniHealth
-
Category: Healthy Lifestyle Benefit
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Specialists, Physiotherapists, and registered Allied Health Providers.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Explicitly lists pool entry / aquarobics. Section B must be completed by the referring practitioner.
-
Form Link: Download Teachers Health Healthy Lifestyle Program Form (PDF)
4. Bupa
-
Category: Health Management / Health Improvement
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Obstetricians, Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologists.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 12–24 months depending on the specific Extras policy.
-
Key Requirements: Requires a health practitioner declaration stating the exercise program directly manages a diagnosed health condition (e.g., pelvic dysfunction/back pain).
5. HCF
-
Category: Exercise & Gym / Health Management Benefit
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Medical Specialists, Allied Health Professionals.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years from the signed date.
-
Key Requirements: Requires the HCF Exercise and Gym Benefits Authorisation Form signed by a practitioner to manage a health/pregnancy condition.
-
Form Link: Download HCF Exercise & Gym Benefits Authorisation Form (PDF)
6. NIB
-
Category: Healthier Lifestyle / Health Management
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Medical Specialists, Allied Health Professionals.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Form must be signed by an approved health professional prior to claiming.
-
Form Link: Download NIB Health Management Form (PDF)
7. Australian Unity
-
Category: Health Management Programs / Preventive Health
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Obstetricians, Allied Health Practitioners.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 1 to 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Must submit a completed Healthcare Provider / Health Management Form confirming prescription for health improvement or pregnancy condition management.
-
Form Link: Download Australian Unity Health Forms Page
8. Peoplecare
-
Category: Health Management
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Allied Health Practitioners.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 12 months.
-
Key Requirements: Requires a completed Declaration of Condition Form signed by a health practitioner confirming the classes treat or manage a specific condition.
-
Form Link: Download Peoplecare Claims & Forms Page
9. Latrobe Health Services
-
Category: Health Management Program
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Medical Practitioners, Allied Health.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Must have a signed Health Management Program form submitted with the paid receipt.
-
Form Link: Access via Latrobe Health Member Portal & Downloads
10. GMHBA & Frank Health Insurance
-
Category: Health Management / Health Improvement
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Recognized Medical & Allied Practitioners.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 1 to 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Requires a completed Health Management Form from a practitioner outlining the pregnancy condition being managed.
-
Form Links:
11. Westfund Health Insurance
-
Category: Health Management / Preventive Health
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Specialists, Allied Health.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Covers approved exercise and aqua programs when prescribed by a practitioner to improve or manage a specific condition.
-
Form Link: Available under the Forms Hub at Westfund Website
12. Defence Health, Navy Health, & Police Health
-
Category: Health Management Programs
-
Eligible Referring Signatories: Chiropractors, GPs, Obstetricians, Allied Health Providers.
-
Form Validity: Valid for 1 to 2 years.
-
Key Requirements: Must submit a Medical Certificate or Health Management Approval form signed by a practitioner.
-
Form Links:
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Aquanatal different from pregnancy yoga, pilates, etc.?
Our classes utilises many wonderful features of water not available when exercising on land: buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure and variable resistance.
The buoyancy of the water supports your weight, making movement easier and helps to protect the joints from unnecessary strain; There is no risk of falling, sudden jarring or overbalancing when exercising in water; Your baby is protected from sudden movements by the extra cushioning; The pressure of the water can have positive effects on fluid balance and swelling; and The variable resistance offered by water allows you to exercise muscles more efficiently, helping to prevent strain and injury.
Together, these provide effective exercise in a safe environment. When it comes to relaxation, there’s nothing better than the wonderful feeling of weightlessness that water can provide. Another important difference is that all classes are run by a qualified and experienced healthcare practitioner. Nobody understands you and your needs better at this special time.
How is Aquanatal different from aquarobics at my local pool?
Aquanatal classes are specifically tailored to pregnancy and post-natal recovery. This means that all exercises are appropriate and safe for you at each stage of your pregnancy. In addition to general fitness, at an Aquanatal class you will exercise your pelvic floor, learn breathing techniques, enjoy relaxation and learn more about birth preparation from an experienced healthcare practitioner. Aquanatal is safer and more appropriate to your needs than a standard aqua fitness class.
Joining & Participating in Aquanatal® Classes
What do I need to do before attending my first class?
You must obtain medical clearance to exercise from your midwife, GP, or obstetrician. Send an email to register for your classes. We limit class numbers to ensure there is plenty of room for everyone and enough time for personal and informal contact between participants and the instructor.
Why & when do I need my doctor's consent?
Exercise during pregnancy is suitable and beneficial for most healthy women with an uncomplicated pregnancy, but there are some situations when it is not advisable. To ensure that exercise, even low-impact exercise such as this, is safe for you and your baby, you need formal clearance to exercise from your obstetrician, GP or midwife before you can attend your first class. If you are not due for your next antenatal appointment for some time, please call Dr Amy to discuss your individual circumstances.
I'm not very fit: is Aquanatal suitable for me?
Yes. This is because of the variable resistance of water, you are fully in control of how hard you work. The instructor will show you how to exercise at your preferred pace.
I exercise a lot: is Aquanatal suitable for me?
Yes. Previous participants have included sportswomen and runners. The instructor can advise you on how strenuously you should exercise at each stage of your pregnancy and how to get the most from your Aquatic workout.
Can I combine these classes with other exercise?
Absolutely, especially if you are used to exercising regularly. There are a few sports and particular types of exercises that are best avoided during pregnancy. Dr Amy is happy to chat with you specifically about what type of exercise you would like to do, and give you some guidance on what exercises you might choose to avoid whilst you are pregnant.
How soon can I start?
You can start anytime after the 12-14th week of pregnancy.
How long can I do Aquanatal for?
Unless your doctor advises otherwise, or there are other reasons that would make it unsafe for you to exercise, you can attend our classes right up until birth.
How soon can I start Aquanatal again after the birth?
You can start exercising post-natally after your doctor has given you the OK at your 6 week check-up. If you’ve had a Caesarean, it’s advisable to wait at least eight to nine weeks, but check with your doctor.
Can I do Aquanatal if I can’t swim?
Absolutely. Most exercises are performed in chest-height water. If you are a non-swimmer or only a weak swimmer, please let your Instructor know on your registration form and before each session. Familiarise yourself with the water depth of the different exercise areas and stay away from pool areas that are too deep for you.
Areas of Service!
We have had the privilege to treat people locally and to greater surrounds. Some of these areas include the suburbs of Allawah, Arncliffe, Banksia, Bardwell Park, Bardwell Valley, Beverley Park, Beverly Hills, Bexley, Blakehurst, Brighton-Le-Sands, Caringbah, Carlton, Carss Park, Connells Point, Dolans Bay, Dolls Point, Greenhills Beach, Gymea Bay, Hurstville, Kingsgrove, Kirrawee, Kogarah, Kurnell, Kyeemagh, Kyle Bay, Lugarno, Mascot, Menai, Miranda, Monterey, Mortdale, Narwee, Oatley, Peakhurst, Penshurst, Port Hacking, Ramsgate, Riverwood, Rockdale, Sandringham, Sans Souci, South Hurstville, Sutherland, Sylvania, Taren Point, Turrella, Wolli Creek and Woolooware!