Annika Turner, originally from Sweden, never imagined that she would one day be developing a fitness class and program for pregnant women, and new moms. “In Sweden, we have such cold winters and short summers, the ability to be outside most of the time seemed strange to me.”
Annika moved to Seal Beach in 2007 with her fiancé and now husband, Bryce Turner, who owns Beach Fitness. A long-term fitness enthusiast, she let her pregnancy slow her down. “I was teaching classes and bouncing around aerobically until month eight of being pregnant with William, you know?” This was nearly three and a half years ago.
Now, with a program which in part is run through the Seal Beach Recreation department, BeachFit Moms® has become the thing to do for many local moms on Tuesdays and Thursdays, when the program is keyed to run outside, in parks, the greenbelt and beach.
Andrea Morales Furr, a Seal Beach resident and mother of 2 says, “BeachFit Moms is exactly what I had been looking for! After running for years and not getting the results I wanted, I knew I had to do something different, but what, and how? With two children, my time to workout is limited; so many other classes out there were not an option for me. A friend introduced me to BeachFit Moms and I’ve been addicted ever since! I can bring my children, the workout is never the same, and the results are undeniable. I feel stronger, healthier and more confident. With the support of Annika, Lee and the other BeachFit Moms, the sky is the limit for all of us! It is not a fad, or a trend, it is a way of life.”
Interestingly enough, many children of the moms have also come and participate in a limited way. They may do movements, mimic their moms or otherwise are part of the class.
Dealing with pre and post-natal women presents a special set of challenges.
There are specific needs, considerations and types of exercises, which work well or more effectively, particularly for pregnant women. This was one of the reasons Annika is so passionate about it. “I just want moms to be, you know, like a bit hard core. Just because you are a mom doesn’t mean you can’t push yourself and get the body you want.” At 5’6” and very fit, Annika is her own best advertisement.
The partnership with the City has been really important to get the word out and to allow the classes to occur in many of the public spaces.
Annika said, “Our group has gotten noticed. This is both a good thing and something we have to prepare for, as with all these moms and children, it can be a lot to keep an eye on.” As a result, BeachFit Moms has instituted a buddy system, a rapid response strategy for any potential danger and a regular “check in” with all participants. In a way, they work too to help all of Seal Beach, and particularly Old Town, safer and definitely healthier.
For more information, call the Seal Beach Community Services Department at (562) 493-8426.
