Most hospitals offer prenatal classes in German “Geburtsvorbereitung." They also offer prenatal exercise classes covering breathing and relaxation techniques along with birthing positions. You can participate even if your German is limited.
The City of Vienna’s Eltern-Kind Zentren (parent and child centres) also offer antenatal classes, as well as “Babytreff ” for small babies, “Krabbeltreff” for older babies, and “Eltern-Kind-Treff” for parents and toddlers. All these sessions are free-of-charge, but German is the main language spoken, however the centres are open to mothers of all nationalities and are great places to take toddlers on a rainy day. These centres are also good places to have your baby weighed and measured; some offer vaccinations and medical assistance. The centres are located in the 5th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 16th, 21st, 22nd, and 23rd districts of Vienna. For more information on the Eltern-Kind-Zentren visit the site: www.kinder.wien.at and click on "Alles rund ums Baby."
The NANAYA - Zentrum für Schwangerschaft, Geburt und Leben mit Kindern (Centre for Pregnancy, Birth, and Living with Children), Zollergasse 37, 1070 offers antenatal classes, and a variety of services for after the birth. Contact: 523 1711 or email nanaya@utanet.at.
The VBC has a qualified and highly sought-after midwife amongst its members. Jacqueline O'Kane runs a Birth Preparation class, is a native English speaker, and has children of her own. You can contact her at jacqueline.okane@aon.at.
Yoga
There are many pregnancy Yoga courses available in Vienna. Here are a few:
Sue Conder Yoga
1030, Rennweg 79-81
Tel: 0664 411 9986
E-mail: sue@sueconderyoga.comSivananda Yoga Vedanta Zentrum Wien
1040, Prinz-Eugen Strasse 18
Tel: 586 3453
E-mail: vienna@sivananda.netYogainstitut Schmida
1060, Lehargasse 1/2
Tel: 587 5046
E-mail: institut@schmida.comZentrum Liechtensteinstrasse
1090, Liechtensteinstrasse 39
Tel: 0699 19 43 87 51
E-mail: anke.pfeiffer@chello.atMidwife Centre (Hebammenzentrum)
1090, Lazarettgasse 6/2/1
Tel: 408 8022
E-mail: freie-hebammen@hebammenzentrum.atSurya Yogastudio
1140, Gyrowetzgasse 1/6
Tel: 894 5405
E-mail: office@elisabethkuhn.at
The following centres also offer courses for mothers with babies and toddlers:
Zentrum Liechtensteinstrasse
Yogainstitut Schmida
Surya Yogastudio
yoga mit claudia hitzenberger
E-mail: c.hitzenberger@gmx.net
Classes include prenatal yoga and mother-baby/child yoga. Classes are conducted in German, but will accommodate English-speaking students.Yoga & Baby Massage
E-mail: Lena Johne, lena@bebetter.at
Lena is a VBC member and speaks English.
Aerobics
Lara Coyle, qualified Aerobics Instructor (YMCA Certified)
Tel: 0699 1941 7376
E-mail: coylelara@yahoo.co.uk
An experienced aerobics instructor and VBC mother offers a cardio workout whilst pushing your baby in the pram/stroller. We use the terrain of the park and hand weights, and have fun while burning calories.
Whole Body and Mind
Lara Coyle, qualified Therapist
Tel: 0699 1941 7376
E-mail: coylelara@yahoo.co.uk
Specializing in Massage, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, and Ear Candle Treatments, Lara has many years of experience offering treatments to adults including expectant mothers. Whether you require a relaxing massage or a treatment to ease stress or ailments, these treatments will help bring equilibrium to your life.LIFE BEAT International Self Development Center
1220, Attemsgasse 7/E 13
Tel: 0676 940 7940
E-mail: office@selfdevelopment.at
A mother of four, Lindsey Walker started this Center to encourage individuals to take a holistic approach, recognizing the harmony between the mind, body and soul. Classes are offered in Yoga, Meditation, and Stress Relief. Also available are self-development workshops, as well as personal and couples coaching.
Belly Dancing
The following studios offer Belly Dancing classes for pregnant moms and after the birth:
Studio Chiftetelli
1070, Neubaugasse 40A
Tel: 526 4777
E-mail: studio.chiftetelli@vienna.atAnnemarie Kerschbaumer, Midwife
1180, Währingerstraße 83,
Tel: 406 5065
E-mail: kerschbaumer@hebammen.at
Jacqueline O'Kane, Midwife - Birth Preparation Classes
Lara Coyle - Aerobics for Mom & Baby
Lena Johne - Yoga & Baby Massage
(look to the left for details on each)