The YMCA and the Middletown Regional Hospital Wellness Center have initiated a series of exercise classes structured around guidelines established by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Countryside YMCA offers Prenatal Yoga and Water Exercise classes, while the Sports and Wellness Center (located inside Countryside's Lebanon facility), has instruction in body mechanics, pre- and post-partum exercise guidelines, baby's first massage, reflexology and nutrition.

"I think that women today understand the importance of daily exercise, but when a woman becomes pregnant, she may have questions or concerns regarding her own fitness routine," said instructor Doreen Owens.

Most classes are about $35 for YMCA members and $50 for nonmembers.

"Our goal is to give future and new mothers some sound advice on taking care of themselves and their newborns in the pre- and post-partum months. Those initial days and weeks can be so overwhelming; we'd like to ensure that new mothers know we're here for them," said Lisa Duncan, physical therapist and site coordinator for the Sports and Wellness Center.

Countryside YMCA is located at 1699 Deerfield Road in Lebanon. For information, contact Countryside YMCA at (513) 932-1434.