The Couch To Fitness classes are a combined effort by Sport England, This Girl Can, and Our Parks to support the health and wellness of pre- and post-natal women.
More than 3 in 4 new mums (78%) have said that cost is a barrier to participating in physical activity.
Couch To Fitness courses offer free access to high-quality exercise. They enable women to safely move at their own pace from the comfort of their homes. Regardless of where they live or their income.
Read more: When can I start to run after having a baby?
Fitness barriers for pregnant women and new mums
A new nationwide survey conducted by This Girl Can and Sport England shows that:
- 86% of pregnant and/or new mothers say that they would like access to a physical activity or exercise programme, which is designed specifically for them. Over 9 in 10 (91%) of those currently pregnant say the same.
- 72% of new mothers say they are unsure how to take part in exercise safely after giving birth.
- 78% of pregnant/post-natal women report it is hard to find exercise classes that meet their needs.
- 82% of pregnant and/or new mothers say they would feel safer doing physical activity led by an instructor with a specific pre- or post-natal exercise qualification.
Read more: How to get back to running after pregnancy