Expectant mothers

Acquagravidanza: moving in water, weightlessly

Acquagravidanza is a gentle warm-water course for mothers-to-be: in water the body weighs much less, so you can move effortlessly and without impact on the joints. It relieves back pain, boosts circulation and helps prepare for birth. In Mendrisio it’s scheduled on Tuesday evenings; at the other locations it runs on request.

◐ expectant mothers ◈ 32–34 °C (Ponte Tresa, Mendrisio and Balerna)

📍 Ponte Tresa · Mendrisio · Balerna

Who it’s for

Pregnant women, generally from the second trimester and with the go-ahead of their gynaecologist or midwife. Also suitable for those who have never done any water-based activity.

Benefits

Relief that floats

◈Eases back pain by taking the weight off the bump

◈Improves circulation and reduces swelling

◈Tones the muscles and pelvic floor, useful for childbirth

◈Promotes relaxation and reduces stress and anxiety

Warm water crossed by slow, circular ripples that open and close

On request

The weight that disappears

In water the body weighs a fraction of its usual weight: the back is relieved and movement becomes possible again, even in the final weeks.

How it works

The path, step by step

Step 1
Gentle activation

Slow movements in warm water, weightlessly.
Step 2
Mobility and circulation

Targeted exercises for back, legs and pelvis.
Step 3
Breathing and relaxation

Preparation for childbirth and final relaxation.

Groups are small. They fill up fast.

The calendar tells you when the lessons are, not how many spots are left. Tell us the course and time you’re interested in: we’ll let you know right away whether there’s still room in the group for the 2026-27 season.

Check available spots or message us on WhatsApp

How much it costs

Cycle of 12 lessons, price depends on location — see the Prices page.

See prices by location · WhatsApp

How much it costs depends on you.

Frequency, location and number of courses change the quote — and those who attend more courses or enrol more family members pay less. Tell us what you have in mind: we’ll reply with an exact figure.

Request your quote or message us on WhatsApp

Frequently asked questions

Up to which month of pregnancy can it be done?

Acquagravidanza is one of the activities you can keep doing for the longest during pregnancy: many women continue until the final weeks, with their midwife’s go-ahead. The water supports the weight and reduces the risk of falls, making it safe even in the third trimester. Always listen to your body and stop if you feel unwell.

When does acquagravidanza take place?

In Mendrisio the course is scheduled for the 2026-27 season, on Tuesdays from 19:45 to 20:30: you’ll find it in the location’s course schedule. At Ponte Tresa and Balerna it runs on request, depending on sign-ups: write to us using the form on the Contact page and we’ll let you know when the next group starts.

Do I need a medical certificate to sign up?

No. In Switzerland a medical certificate is not required for pool courses and Ondarte does not ask for one: you can sign up directly, with no medical visits or health documents. We only ask you to let us know of any health conditions the instructor should be aware of, so we can support you as well as possible in the water.

Sign up — acquagravidanza

Leave us your details: we’ll get back to you about times, availability and finding the right group.

Other courses

Water confidence

Acquagravidanza: moving in water, weightlessly

Who it’s for

Relief that floats

The weight that disappears

The path, step by step

Gentle activation

Mobility and circulation

Breathing and relaxation