The Mom Workout That’s Huge in Europe Is Here!

They’re doing it in Switzerland. They’re doing it in Germany. They’re doing it in France, Tokyo, and Singapore. Mom in Balance is a workout program that originated in the Netherlands, and it’s now available in 120 locations in 11 countries. With a focus on pre- and post-natal fitness for women, the program arrived in New York last year, and Mom in Balance NYC has new offerings for spring! Read on to be in the know!

photo: Mom in Balance

Importing Pre- and Post-Natal Fitness
Pre- and post natal fitness program Mom in Balance was founded in the Netherlands in 2013. Developed specifically for expectant and new mothers, the program is a true departure from traditional prenatal workouts that tend to focus solely on stretch/strength elements.

Taught by trainers with additional experience in areas of physical therapy, pre- and post-natal exercise, yoga, and pilates, the classes also incorporate cardio work and exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor. (Instructors also take part in a three-day Mom in Balance training course.)

Mom in Balance infuses the progressive and holistic Dutch attitude towards pregnancy and motherhood into their program. The result is an invigorating outdoor class environment focusing on mental as well as physical fitness designed to build a strong life foundation for new motherhood.

photo: Mom in Balance

Connecting City Moms Worldwide
Verena Schiml first experienced the program in the Netherlands as an expecting and new mother, and eventually became a trainer with Mom in Balance. A professional with a background in marketing, she went on to launch the program throughout Europe and Asia, focusing on urban areas filled with busy women looking to stay fit and healthy pre-and post-birth.

photo: Mom in Balance

Mom in Balance, NYC Edition
Last year, a move to New York provided the opportunity for Schiml to spread the Mom in Balance gospel to the Big Apple. She says the most “European” aspect of the program is its dedication to holding classes outdoors, a feature that participants find both invigorating and centering. (The program will be coming to San Francisco soon, too.)

Mom in Balance classes last one hour and follow the same structure of warm up, strength training, cardio and cool down, incorporating different exercises and moves to keep things interesting. Classes are typically eight to 12 people in size.

The program is currently offered at three outdoor locations in NYC: Central Park, Battery Park (Pier 25), and Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Classes are held at all times of day to accommodate NYC women’s busy schedules: morning, afternoon, and evening.

The classes are generally held without babes, as they are seen as a time for women to focus on themselves, refresh and recharge.

With spring arriving and the idea of being (and exercising) outdoors becoming more appealing, Mom in Balance is adding a location in Manhattan’s Central Park: on the Upper East Side at 76th Street.

photo: Mom in Balance

Come Try it For Free! 
To celebrate, its holding a free kick-off workout event this Saturday, April 14, from 9:30 – 11 a.m.

It will be a 45 minute workout separated into the program’s Pregnant, Back in Shape and MPower classes. (Select your choice when you register.)  After the workout, there will be healthy snacks and drinks and every participant gets a goodie bag. Register your spot by sending an email to: newyork@mominbalance.com

Meet at the field north of James Michael Levin Playground, Entrance to Central Park, between East 76th and East 77th Street.

Mom in Balance
Several Locations, Manhattan and Brooklyn
Online: mominbalance.com

Are you a Mom in Balance? Tell us about your workout! 

—Mimi O’Connor

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