Mum's the Word: Unexpected Wins From My Postnatal Rehab Journey

My Low Pressure Fitness Training in Spain

The turning point came when I attended the Low Pressure Fitness (LPF) training in Spain, led by the brilliant Dr. Tamara Rial. My perspective shifted dramatically as I observed multiple Spanish and Brazilian trainers who had given birth to multiple children. These women had not only reversed prolapse but also maintained incredibly fit physiques. They all shared a similar body type: clear waistlines, toned abs, and the strength to perform challenging full-body poses with ease.

My background in dance training gave me unique insight into how consistent, specific training can shape the body over time. During the LPF training, there was considerable emphasis on how their toned abs were a direct result of the LPF method. At the time, I was pregnant with my second child, so I couldn’t fully engage in the training. It wasn’t until after my second birth, when I started practising LPF techniques on my own body, that I truly understood the power of this approach.

The Postnatal Rehab Journey

The postnatal rehab journey became a pivotal turning point. I started with gentle postnatal core exercises, focusing on rebuilding my core strength and pelvic floor. Slowly, I noticed improvements—not just physically, but mentally as well. Each small victory, like being able to walk a little further or lift my baby without discomfort, was a testament to my body's incredible ability to recover and adapt. This process taught me to be patient and kind to myself.

It wasn’t magic, but methodical work that yielded results. Consistent practice over time, combined with proper technique, was the key to achieving such encouraging results. The confidence that came with the progress I was making became the foundation of my postpartum recovery, and later, my approach to helping other women.

Reaping the Benefits of Informed, Consistent Postpartum Care

The rehabilitation process gifted me with a deeper connection to my body. I developed a newfound appreciation for its resilience and an ability to listen to its needs more intuitively. This not only benefited my physical recovery but also enhanced my Pilates, yoga, and Hypopressives training practice, not to mention my overall well-being.

Hypopressives, which are a series of breathing and posture exercises designed to improve core strength, pelvic floor function, and overall posture, originate from Europe. The exercises are great for reducing pressure in the abdominal cavity, which in turn prevents or alleviates issues like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. By engaging the diaphragm and promoting a vacuum effect in the abdomen, hypopressives work to tone the core muscles without the strain of traditional abdominal workouts.

This method is particularly beneficial for postpartum recovery, as it gently rebuilds strength and stability in a way that's safe and effective for new mothers.

The Privilege of Supporting Hundreds of Women

Since I started teaching Hypopressives I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of women, supporting them on their postpartum recovery journey. Many women arrive with their own unique set of symptoms and recovery needs and Hypopressives gives me the tools to provide the right approach for each unique case.

Through this experience and my own recovery process, I’ve come to a powerful realisation: when you engage in practices that resonate with your body, recovery is not only possible but also transformative. It is possible to emerge from the training even stronger than before having children. This isn’t just true for me; I’ve witnessed it in many of the women I’ve worked with.

You Can Do it Too!

I now know for sure that with the right approach, knowledge, and dedication, we can not only recover but thrive after childbirth. For dancers, athletes, trainers, and women from all walks of life, this message is crucial. Pregnancy and childbirth are among the most precious experiences you can have. The changes that the body undergoes are normal, and they do not spell the end of your physical fitness. Instead, they can be the beginning of a new phase of life - one in which you discover strength you never knew you had.

As I continue my work in this field, I’m committed to spreading this message of hope and empowerment. Every woman’s journey is unique, but with the right tools and support, the postpartum period can be a time of incredible growth, both physically and emotionally. It’s time to cast aside our worries around our health and post-pregnancy bodies, and to welcome the amazing potential for renewal and strength that lies within each of us.

Getting started with Hypopressives

For the Hypopressives classes it is important that you learn the Apnea technique properly so that you can get the most out of the classes and the time you invest in yourself. Each week I run Fundamentals sessions on Zoom where I explain the technique and guide you through all the steps. I will also give you feedback to make sure that you're doing it correctly. For some, the technique may come more quickly than others. Some clients, who are tighter in the ribs and thoracic spine do tend to take a little longer.

And here's the golden rule - for impactful change, I recommend at least three 15 to 20-minute workouts per week. Consistency is your best friend on this journey towards wellness.