Exercise After Baby #3

by Jacqui Owens

After having my 3rd baby in December last year, I made a promise to myself that I would prioritise my postpartum core and pelvis for the first time ever. In the past, my preferred method of exercise has been throwing myself hammer and tong into some sort of boot camp style class that leaves me sore for days and with a few weird but manageable twinges in various parts of my body.

I just knew that at this point in my life that was not going to end well and that I needed to take a more measured and mindful approach!

I’ll admit that previously, my exercise goals have been more about physical appearance, mental health, and fitness – in that order!! But after growing and pushing out three babes I now have new goals – and they’re pretty basic! Strengthen my core and pelvic floor.

Enter Function Playground – a physio led exercise studio in Boronia Park (Gladesville) offering aerial Yoga, reformer & mat Pilates and Japanese Yoga. The timing was perfect for an RDM / Function collab and I was determined to make the most of the opportunity!

For the last 12 weeks, I’ve been trying out all the classes at Function Playground – here’s my take on their offering:

Aerial Yoga

Well, this is just plain, undeniable fun. If you miss the feeling of mastery, playfulness or if you just need a different perspective on life, give Aerial yoga a go! Everyone can do it. I was stunned that on my first go, 8 weeks postpartum, I was able to do an “inversion” which involved being upside down in a fabric hammock. I mean WHAT?! I absolutely adored this class and could not stop raving about it! I feel like everyone needs to try it.

In terms of its therapeutic value, it’s amazing for posture, core, the vestibular system and much more.

Reformer Pilates

I finally got the chance to try out reformer pilates using the proper machine. It’s something I’ve wanted to try for ages and was certain after my first go I’d step off the machine looking like Gwyneth Paltrow. While that did not happen, I did really enjoy the class and later discovered some parts of my core and abdominals that I didn’t know existed! The instructor for the class was really wonderful at helping me understand how to use the machine and get the most out of every movement.

Japanese Yoga

Not typically something I would be into, I gave Japanese Yoga (also known as Ki Yoga) a try because the class times suited me. After 1 class I was hooked. I’m not sure if it’s because of the amazing instructor, or because of the yoga itself but it’s just so good! I particularly love how obscure the poses are – almost contortionism! I was definitely kept on my toes the whole class (except the class is floor based so I mean that figuratively ?).

The movements work with the same meridians in the body as acupuncture and zen shiatsu and focus on stimulating the internal organs as much as the external muscles.

After

As part of the 12-week process, I was tested before and after on a Function designed scale of strength and flexibility – I went from 15/24 to 24/24 during my time with them, which I can absolutely feel and see.

I adored my trial at Function Playground for the following reasons:

• Incredible instructors – they have niche skills that they’ve honed in an impressive way
• Small class sizes – instructors can really watch your technique and provide tailored feedback + you can get to know the instructors really well (they’re all so lovely!)
• The venue – it’s nicely fitted out, clean and right next door to my fave Boronia Kitchen
• Class booking app – soooo easy to use

With 3 kids I could really only find 1 hour a week to visit but I considered that one hour invested wisely as I always left feeling a million dollars!

RDM Special Offer

I asked Function Playground owner and physio, Mena, for a Ryde District Mums special offer and he has delivered!

Function Playground is offering the first and last week FREE when you purchase a 12-week program – just mention you are a Ryde District Mum! This means you’ll only pay 10 weeks of your 12-week program and you can use this deal to attend any type of class, any time. Contact Function to book this offer!

BEST OF ALL: because they are physio led, all of the classes at Function Playground can be rebated by your health fund ???

The Details

Phone: 9879 7467

Email: admin@functionpcp.com.au

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Function-Playground

Instagram: www.instagram.com/functionpcp

Website: www.functionpcp.com.au

Address: 148 Pittwater Road, Gladesville, NSW, 2111