Personalised Ante & Postnatal Fitness Training
“When I discovered I was pregnant I knew that I wanted to be trained by Steve to ensure that I would be fit and healthy for the birth.
With his excellent knowledge of what happens to your body during pregnancy and the changes he made to work outs as I got bigger, I knew I was in safe hands.
Throughout my pregnancy I was pain free and able to walk and workout. During labour, the stamina and strength I had developed really helped me to get through the long hours.
I cannot recommend Steve enough to anyone who is pregnant or thinking of having a baby.”
I’m a Level 4 Advanced Personal Trainer, certified in adapting exercise for ante and postnatal participants, and certified in Level 4 Exercise for Management of Lower Back Pain. I have been helping mums-to-be get fit for baby many years and have written articles about pregnancy fitness, taken part in a pregnancy fitness podcast and I’m also a This Mum Moves Ambassador.
I’m proud to say that during the years that I’ve been training women during their pregnancies, not a single one has had any back pain during their pregnancy!
Antenatal Fitness
Keeping fit during pregnancy, also known as antenatal fitness has many benefits for both the mother and the growing baby, even before it’s born!
Resistance training is an often neglected aspect of pregnancy fitness, but it’s very important. The hormonal aspects of pregnancy make women more prone to joint pain during this time, so pregnancy appropriate resistance training helps to keep the joint supporting muscles fit and working well to help reduce this risk. Appropriate fitness activities also help to maintain stamina and energy levels.
It’s important that exercise is adapted specifically for pregnancy though, and adjusted with each trimester. Some exercises are not appropriate for certain stages of pregnancy, so it’s not just about knowing what to do, but also knowing what not to do!
Benefits of Antenatal Fitness:
Reduced risk of joint and back pain.
Enhanced energy, sleep and posture.
Feeling in control of your body.
Reduction in pregnancy symptoms.
Faster return to pre-pregnancy weight and fitness levels after birth.
Reduced risk of post-natal depression.
Improved tolerance of stress of labour for the baby.
Better body composition for the baby.
“Steve was able to put a fantastic plan together for me and provide various different options for my busy and complicated working week where no 2 days are the same!
I am now 33 weeks pregnant with no hip pain or back ache and I put this down to the program Steve planned to help keep me active. Thank you so much for the past few months.”
Postnatal Fitness
Post-pregnancy fitness, also known as postnatal fitness, is really important, but it’s also really exciting! It’s a time where you can start exercising in positions that you had to avoid during pregnancy, which really opens up your exercise options.
There are several reasons why postnatal fitness training is important. Some of the hormonal effects of pregnancy can last for up to a year after birth, making you more prone to joint pain. Your uppermost layer of abdominal muscles may have separated during pregnancy as the baby grew, and other core and pelvic floor muscles will have been stretched and weakened, leaving you more prone to back pain and bladder leaks. Postnatal fitness aims to help you regain your core stability and pelvic floor function, while strengthening your body to avoid joint pain and give you the energy to care for your little one.
Certain abdominal exercises must be avoided during the postnatal period to avoid permanent doming of the abdomen, so it’s key to take a gentle and sustainable approach to your core rehab with the right exercises for you.
Benefits of Postnatal Fitness
Rehabilitation of the muscles which are most affected by pregnancy postural changes.
Increased core stability to help support your back health.
Improved pelvic floor muscle function to help avoid unwanted leaks.
Improved strength and stamina for caring for your new family addition.
Provides essential muscular support for joint health and daily activities.
Enhanced feelings of self-esteem, confidence, and wellbeing.
“Steve has been my personal trainer for several years now and has supported me in achieving fitness and weight loss goals. This included antenatal and postnatal training ... Steve has tailor made my programme to suit my needs exactly. He gently keeps me accountable and adapts the workouts / stretches to make sure I can fit them into my life. Steve also gives great nutritional support through online training.
I would recommend Steve unreservedly as a personal trainer.”
My ante and postnatal fitness training is delivered through my Virtual Fitness Coaching service. This means that you have the flexibility to train where you want, when you want, fully guided and supported by me, with access to me 5 days a week if you need any help, support, or adjustments to your training. This allows you the flexibility to fit your exercise around your existing work, family, and personal commitments at times that work for you, in ways that work for you, while knowing that I’m there to provide accountability and expert guidance for you. You can learn more about Virtual Fitness Coaching below:
If you want to learn more about how I can help you, please click below to book in your free, no obligation 60 minute consultation to chat to me and find out more:
Pregnancy Fitness Resources From Shreeve Health and Fitness:
Pregnancy Fitness, here’s what you need to know
Pregnancy Fitness Podcast
What exercises can you do after giving birth by C-section?
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