For Kim Shibley, teaching prenatal and postpartum water aerobics at Columbia Basin Racquet Club is more than a job. It’s a commitment to creating a supportive and healthy environment for pregnant women, new moms, and their families.
In the ten years she’s worked at CBRC, Kim has applied her training as a certified childbirth educator to offer both social and educational setting for healthier pregnancies.
SUPPORTIVE AND BENEFICIAL
The prenatal water aerobics class is designed to have women cushioned and supported in the water while providing a cardiovascular and strength workout. The soothing effect of the water provides a safe and conducive environment for prenatal exercise
Exercising safely during pregnancy can lessen fatigue, reduce backaches, increase endurance during labor, improve mood, self-confidence, posture, and balance. It can also mean that women need less time to recover from childbirth.
For women who have just had a baby, this moms-only fitness class jump-starts the drive to get back in shape at a healthy pace. It’s also an ideal class to take for women who can benefit from exercises that strengthen their abdomen and pelvic floor muscles. Note that a doctor’s permission is required before starting class.
SOCIAL AND EDUCATIONAL
Kim doesn’t just work with women during class. She also hosts informal get-togethers at her home for moms, babies, and even grandmas. These gatherings enforce the lifelong friendships her class fosters among moms and families. In addition to the off-site gatherings that happen five to six times a year, many moms stay in touch through social media or by scheduling play dates and meet-ups around pre-school and school schedules.
Kim says her family is her greatest joy and knowing that she can support other women brings her tremendous satisfaction. She says this work is her passion and “if I can ever help a family get started in the world that is a blessing.”
COMMUNITY-MINDED
In addition to teaching at CBRC, Kim teaches CPR and other first-aid classes. She also works with new Kadlec employees to develop and hone their communication skills.
The best part of working at CBRC is feeling like she works with family. She considers her co-workers to be friends and is especially grateful to work with Laura Hill. Laura is a fellow water aerobics instructor who subs for her classes and others. Her energy and kindness inspire Kim to support her clients and co-workers.
Kim brings the enthusiasm she has at work to the Tri-Cities community. She’s active with her church, 4H, Young Life, and her children’s school activities. She makes it a goal to enjoy every minute of life and encourages her clients to do the same: “Life is a blessing – live it!”