Prenatal yoga is a great exercise option for expectant mothers. It boasts numerous mental and physical health benefits with specialized variations to accommodate and nurture a growing baby and belly. We have rounded up local studios with prenatal yoga for soon-to-be-mamas looking to start a practice. Read on to discover where to do prenatal yoga in the Montclair area.
Devoted Mamas | Classes in Montclair + Cranford
Nicole Coons and Kendra Fitzgerald are pregnancy fitness specialists who support expecting moms virtually and in person. In addition to private training and group support, the duo also teaches prenatal classes in the area. Nicole teaches a yoga class on Saturdays at 11:30AM at Alluem Yoga in Cranford, located at 347 Lincoln Avenue East This class uses props and a range of postures to help women adapt to their ever-changing pregnant body, emphasizing breathing, stretching, and strengthening. Kendra teaches core and pelvic floor strength classes at Montclair B.A.B.Y. (more on this location below), along with postpartum classes.
Read More: Fertility Resources in Essex County, New Jersey
Home Power Yoga | Locations in Cranford + Summit
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While this studio is in our neighboring Union County, it has a noteworthy prenatal program — as well as a recently opened Summit location. The Cranford location at 8 Eastman Street and the Summit location at 463 Springfield Avenue has a prenatal class on Sundays at 10:30AM that it describes as empowering and nourishing. The class aims to strengthen and calm the physical and mental body during pregnancy and postpartum. The class is 60 minutes in its non-heated studio room with poses and breathing exercises designed to address the many changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth.
Indigo Yoga | 351 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell
As a mom and yogi, Owner Samantha Gambuzza knew how important it was to add a prenatal option to the schedule of classes at Indigo Yoga. The prenatal classes typically take place in a three to four-week series and are led by two teachers at a time to provide some extra TLC. Nearly all of the teachers at the studio are certified in prenatal yoga instruction, and training occurs frequently so that the studio can continue to bring this offering to its community. The studio also hosts the occasional pre and postnatal events, such as pelvic health workshops and prenatal pop-ups.
Iris Yoga | 383 Broad Street, Bloomfield
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The prenatal package at Iris Yoga is designed for women at any stage of pregnancy and can help build techniques and modifications for more traditional yoga classes. The classes teach modified yoga poses, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques to help hone mental, physical, and emotional strength for those preparing for birth. At the end of the three sessions, the instructor recommends studio classes that women can safely continue throughout pregnancy. The package is available at $299, which includes two 60-minute private sessions and 21 days of unlimited studio classes.
Montclair B.A.B.Y. | 13 Walnut Street, Montclair
Prenatal yoga at Montclair B.A.B.Y is welcoming, compassionate, and open to women at any point in their pregnancy. Classes aim to be a relaxing and nourishing way to reduce back aches and connect to one’s growing baby. The studio holds classes numerous times throughout the week, including weekends and weeknights, and the option to join virtually. No prior yoga experience is required, and new clients can take advantage of special pricing, including an in-person three-class package for $50 and one month unlimited for $79.
Shakti Yoga + Living Arts | 1861 Springfield Avenue A, Maplewood
Shakti Yoga hosts a prenatal class every Saturday from 12:30PM to 2PM. The class begins with a guided Pranayama (breath work) meditation to experience the nourishing and calming benefits of breathing for two. Asanas (yoga postures) encourage openness and strength, preparing the mind and body for the transformative journey through pregnancy and labor. The class ends with a soothing Savasana (deep relaxation) and chanting to honor pregnancy as a living prayer. The class is designed for all stages of pregnancy and costs $25 for a drop-in or $110 for a five-class package.
The MindfulNest Co. | 9 Bloomfield Avenue, North Caldwell
This family-focused yoga and mindfulness studio also holds classes for expecting mothers starting their journeys. Its Flow + Glow class on Friday mornings is prenatal-friendly and blends yoga and guided energy work. The studio also has a similar variation for those interested in a private class. Group and private classes focus on breathing, brief meditation, and reiki energy healing. A drop-in class is $28 with class pack and membership options available, and a private class is $125.
See More: Expecting a Baby? Resources for New Parents in Hoboken
Yoga Mechanics | 107 Forest Street, Montclair
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Yoga Mechanics periodically hosts a prenatal and postpartum series, and there’s one currently on the schedule for summer 2024. Mothers can make deeper connections with their growing baby and other expecting parents within the community at all stages of pre- and post-pregnancy. With an intentional focus on alignment and anatomy, this yoga class creates space for expecting moms to safely explore, strengthen, stretch, and rest their changing bodies. The instructor tailors each class to those present and where they are in their pregnancies. A drop-in class costs $27, while a three-class pack is $73.