Child and family nurses Denise Hopkins and Jane O’Malley have recently started a new six week aqua fitness program, with classes on each Monday and Wednesday.

Denise and Jane, both trained aqua fitness leaders, said the activity is a great way of keeping fit, as it can help strengthen muscles, increase energy levels and improve flexibility. It’s also easy to learn, effective, safe and most importantly, fun.

“Maintaining physical fitness during pregnancy plays an important role in coping with the discomfort of pregnancy, the hard work of labour and the challenges of early parenthood,” Denise said.  “This year we have been able to secure a NSW Health grant and have employed two baby care workers through the Schools as Community Centre (SaCC) and Forbes North School,” Jane said.

“Tivoli Yeatman and Jodi Bilsborough, as well as SaCC facilitator Maree Yapp will provide babysitting for babies and infants in prams or strollers for the one hour their mums are at the aqua fitness class. We also have some registered volunteers to care for the babies as well,” she said.

Participants will need to wear swimwear/rash vest or comfortable clothing (such as t-shirt or shorts). Bring a towel, hat, sunscreen and most importantly water. 

The classes are held each Monday and Wednesday from 9.30am to 10.30am at Forbes Town Pool. Cost is just $2.50 for pool entry.

Registration is required by contacting Denise or Jane at Forbes Community Health on 6850 7305 or 6850 7310, or via email on denisehopkins@health.nsw.gov.au or jane.omalley@health.nsw.gov.au

Denise and Jane also reminded local parents of other services available for families with children up to five years old.

The child and family health nurses are at Forbes Community Health Centre from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and all their services are free which include - home visits, clinic appointments, breast and/or bottle feeding advice, sleep and settling advice, starting family foods, health checks, new parent groups and immunisations.