New aquanatal exercise classes are starting next week for pregnant women at the borough’s three leisure centres.

The classes are being introduced to help women stay active during pregnancy and are suitable for all stages of labour. The water-based exercise classes are non-weight bearing and provide a gentle, safe and effective water workout.

All sessions will be run by fully trained staff including Healthy Pregnancy Support Workers and will start on Monday 25th February - pre-booking is advisable to avoid disappointment.

The classes will run at Dudley Leisure Centre in Wellington Road from 11.30am to 12.30pm every Monday and the Crystal Leisure Centre in Stourbridge, from 8pm to 8.45pm every Tuesday and 9am to 9.45am every Thursday.

Finally, classes will run at Halesowen Leisure Centre in Pool Road from 10.30am to 11.30am and 8pm to 8.45pm every Wednesday; and 12.15pm to 1pm every Friday.

Daytime sessions will run during term time only, with evening sessions taking place all year round. The cost is £5.30 per session.

Lane swimming sessions are also starting for pregnant women at Halesowen Leisure Centre. They will run from 12pm to 1pm and 6pm to 7pm on Monday; 8pm to 8.45pm on Wednesday; 12.15pm to 1.30pm on Friday; and 2pm to 3pm on Saturday. It will cost £4.40 per session and is on during term time only.

Aquanatal and lane swimming sessions are included in the Options Lifestyle membership scheme. For further information call 01384 812 800 or visit dudley.gov.uk/sport.