BECOME THE EXPERT WITH A WEALTH OF PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM KNOWLEDGE
PCES 3.0—The groundbreaking Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification has arrived! The third iteration features new lectures, research studies, exercises, and case studies.
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PCES 3.0 registration opens in January 2025.
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Join the presale list to save $250 off the regular price.
Grow your health and fitness career
Feel confident helping your pregnant and postpartum clients
Understand the core and pelvic floor issues associated with childbirth
Help women of any age get into high intensity exercise
Tackle issues like leaking, pelvic organ prolapse and diastasis recti
Master the whole-body approach to women's health and fitness
Personal Trainers | Pilates Instructors | Yoga Teachers | Wellness Professionals
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Bridge the gap between training and rehab
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Understand postpartum dysfunctions and the best corrective exercises to help
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Gain confidence in programming for difficult issues
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Exercise progressions, regressions, and variations for clients at any level
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Practical application - going beyond theory
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Become a trusted advisor and resource for your clients
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Know where and when to refer clients to maximize recovery
Physical Therapists | Chiropractors | Healthcare Professionals
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Learn the best corrective exercises for improving alignment and strength
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Find the source of problems through systematic checks and assessments
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Gain a working knowledge of effective exercise tweaks
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Practical application - case studies, progressions and regressions
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Have confidence in your exercise prescription for any level client, from beginner to advanced athlete.
What health and fitness professionals are saying:
Barbara Handschin, Certified Pilates Instructor
Stacey Schaedler, CPT
Gina Conley, CPT, Doula, Owner of MamasteFit
Lisa Sack, Certified Yoga Therapist
Why focus on women's health?
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
According to a research article in the BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Urinary Incontinence
According to a research article in the BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
How it works:
Access the course from your computer or download the app on your mobile device to access lessons and course materials anywhere.
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After registering, you’ll immediately receive access to the lectures, checklist, quick reference guide and course syllabus.
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With each lesson, you’ll be able to download the applicable research studies as well as PDF summaries.
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The PCES Course Book will be mailed right to your door.
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There are quizzes at the end of each section instead of a big test at the end to make applying the information easy.
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Once you’ve completed all the sections, you’ll receive your Certification.
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You’ll be able to look back on the material at any time. Most graduates find they reference the material often.
Join our community of Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialists.
Join our directory of International PCES graduates and get found by local moms who need your pregnancy and postpartum recovery expertise.
PCES 3.0 Curriculum
Section 1: Anatomy
Join us for a practical approach to the human body. We learn how the muscular systems function together and how movement issues might arise.
We answer questions like "How does the diaphragm, pelvic floor, core interact and how does this interaction affect the entire body?"
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7 Anatomy Lecture Videos
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9 Movement Tests + Additional Explanations
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19 Exercises
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4 Case Studies
Section 2: Breathing
Breathing is our foundation and it affects our entire body. In this section, we cover the importance of deep breathing, pressure, breathing trainers, rib flare, rib movement and rib mobility.
We answer questions like "What are the best exercises to get someone breathing correctly?"
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4 Breathing Lecture Videos
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8 Movement Tests + Additional Explanations
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13 Exercises
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10 Case Studies
Section 3: Posture
If breathing is our foundation, then alignment is our infrastructure. This section focuses on posture assessments, spinal mobility, high hinge point, core imbalances, pelvic angles and more.
We answer questions like "What are some simple cues to make effective posture changes happen fast?"
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3 Posture Lecture Videos
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5 Movement Tests + Additional Explanations
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15 Exercises
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6 Case Studies
Section 4: Pelvic Floor
What does the pelvic floor actually do and how does it do it? For a lot of us, the pelvic floor was not covered well in school and remains a mystery. This section leaves no stone unturned, covering hypotonic vs hypertonic pelvic floor muscles, prolapse, incontinence, connections to other parts of the body and advanced pelvic floor strategies.
We answer questions like "What are the best strategies for helping both urge and stress incontinence?"
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8 Pelvic Floor Lecture Videos
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7 Movement Tests + Additional Explanations
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5 Strength Tests and Tips: Back to Running and Jumping
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14 Exercises
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5 Case Studies
Section 5: Diastasis Recti
Diastasis Recti is both a local dysfunction within the abdominal wall and a whole-body issue. In this section, we cover the connection between diastasis and the pelvic floor, hernias, rib cage angle, posture improvements for diastasis, and how to check for one.
We answer questions like "Do you need different exercises to address a diastasis that’s more severe above or below the belly button?"
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3 Diastasis Recti Lecture Videos
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5 Movement Tests + Additional Explanations
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9 Exercises
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6 Case Studies
Section 6: Pregnancy
Research shows pregnant women should exercise, but each pregnancy is different so there are no cut-and-dry safe or unsafe exercises. This section covers each trimester and the considerations needed for every type of situation.
We answer questions like "What guidelines and concerns should you take a look at for working with a new pregnant client?"
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3 Pregnancy Lecture Videos
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11 Movement Tests + Additional Explanations
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7 Exercises + Case Studies
Section 7: Postpartum
At this point in the course, we have covered many postpartum topics, but this section dives deeper into postpartum timelines and expectations. It also covers major concerns, safe exercises, screening and recovery.
We answer questions like "How do we start into general exercise and get someone back on a workout plan?"
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3 Postpartum Lecture Videos
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5 Progressive Postpartum Workouts
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1 C-Section Scar Tissue Release Video
Section 8: Bonus Material
The bonus section is packed with expert interviews covering a wide range of topics including nutrition, pregnancy considerations, yoga, delivery prep and motivation. This section also features release work and extensive birth prep lessons from Annatina Shorno-Pitsch, PT.
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24 Expert Interviews
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3 Abdominal Massage Videos with Annatina Shoorno-Pitsch, PT
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30 Birth Prep Videos with Annatina Shorno-Pitsch, PT.
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10 Yoga Consideration Videos with Kathryn Ambrogne, LPTA, ACE CPT
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17 Pilates Consideration Videos with Allison Marsh, NCPT
Exercise Library
Every exercise in the course is compiled in the Exercise Library for quick reference. Each exercise includes a video tutorial and a printed copy in the accompanying PCES workbook. You learn when and why to use specific exercises, helpful cueing and common mistakes.
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Over 75 Exercises and Explanations
The PCES Course Book
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Highlights important points from the lecture videos
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Exercise library with pictures and breakdowns
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Detailed index for quickly looking up any topic
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400+ full-color pages
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Free shipping worldwide
Hear from more PCES Grads:
Graduates of the PCES Certification are helping women all around the world.
Dr. Sarah Coulombe PT, DPT, CSCS, NSCA-CPT
Dr. Laura Nice, DPT
Luke Robinson, CPT, Owner of Wolfpack Fitness
Nalini Kokatay, CMT
Life-Changing Stories From PCES Grads
#PCESHero – Using Knowledge to Heal Her Body and Help Others
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Meet your women's health expert:
Dr. Sarah and her team have helped thousands of women overcome pelvic floor issues, diastasis recti, SI joint dysfunction, and low back pain. With a doctorate and over 20 years in health and wellness, she offers a cutting-edge, evidence-based course backed by extensive training and experience.
As a mother of two, Dr. Sarah understands the journey to full recovery after childbirth. She is dedicated to empowering women to become stronger and healthier after having a baby. She works with women worldwide and believes that motherhood should enhance, not diminish, a woman's ability to live life to its fullest.
In addition to being a wife and mother, Dr. Sarah is an adventure sports enthusiast. She enjoys rock climbing, kiteboarding, and any activity that challenges her physical and mental limits.
Dr. Sarah Ellis Duvall, PT, DPT, CPT, CNC
Two Levels for Learning
The Self Study option allows you to move through the course at your own pace. The Full Support option is semester-based and includes support from our expert team through our Facebook group and live video Q&A sessions.
PCES Course - Self Study
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Access to all videos, assignments, case studies, exercises, additional reading and PDFs.
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Earn CEU credit while you become an exercise expert on pregnancy, postpartum, pelvic floor and diastasis.
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Complete PCES Workbook delivered to your door.
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Lifetime access to the course to review the materials at any point in time.
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Research studies included in downloads.
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Each exercise comes with an additional instructional handout to email or print for clients.
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Free access to new PCES course launches.
PCES 3.0 opens in January 2025. Join the presale list for updates and to save $250 off the regular course price.
$1050 USD
Payment plans are available starting at $126/month for 9 months or $270/month for 4 months.
PCES Course - Full Support
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Everything from the Self Study option plus:
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6 months of Inner Circle Support (limited number of participants in Facebook Group)
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2-3 live calls each month (date/time determined by vote)
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Calls focus on Q and A as well as direct exercise applications and live troubleshooting (all calls are recorded)
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Access to additional bonus expert interviews and content
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Access to all the business building material while in the group
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Ability to post videos for personalized exercise critiques and troubleshooting in the Facebook group
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Additional case studies and study reviews available only in the group
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Additional exercise demos, troubleshooting, and breakdowns
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Ask questions in the Facebook group at any time and get support from Sarah and our expert team in the Inner Circle
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Access to Shoulder Solutions, Essentials, previous live calls and more in the Inner Circle
PCES 3.0 opens in January 2025. Join the presale list for updates and to save $250 off the regular course price.
$1550 USD
Payment plans are available starting at $315/month for 5 months.
100% Money Back Guarantee in the first 30 days.
See checkout for details. Email for more information.
Compare the courses we offer
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification | Pelvis Pro | Learning Through Applications | Intro to the Pelvic Floor and Diastasis Recti: Essentials | |
| Continuing Education Hours | 34 hours | 25 hours | 30 hours | 5 hours |
| Focus | Online educational exercise-based course focusing on pelvic floor dysfuncton, diastasis recti, pregnancy and postpartum. | Online educational exercise-based course directed toward helping clients with hip, pelvis, and SI joint issues. | Online self-focused workout program for professionals to help solve their own issues. | Online educational exercise-based course introducing core and pelvic floor exercise considerations and modifications. |
| Format | Online Course + Workbook (Free Shipping Worldwide) | Online Course + Printable PDF Booklets | Online Monthly Membership program + Printable PDF Booklet | Online Course + Printable PDF Booklet |
| Topics | Covering exercise-based solutions for posture, breathing, anatomy, pelvic floor dysfunction and tension, pelvic organ prolapse, diastasis recti, SI joint pain, and low back pain. Special focus on pregnant and postpartum clients. | Covering exercise-based solutions for hip impingement, labral tears, pelvic tilt, piriformis and obturator internal tension, biomecanics, SPD, bursitis, hamstring and adductor strains, and more. | Covering pelvic floor dysfunction, prolapse, pelvic floor tension, diastasis recti, hip issues, impingement, labral tears, shoulder solutions, and more. | Covering an introduction to pelvic floor and diastasis recti considerations for exercise. Core and pelvic floor basics every fitness and rehab professional should know. |
| Support | Optional Private Facebook Group Subscription (live Q&As, additional coursework, and more) | Live Q&A Call included | Bimonthly Live Q&As + Private Facebook Group Support included | Self Study |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put this course toward continuing education credits?
Please check back for updates on CEU approval and email us if you have any questions. [email protected]
Pre-Approved by:
- NASM - 1.9 CEUs
- AFAA - 15 CEUs
- NPCP - 35 CECs
- PACE - 35 CEUs
- ISSA - 20 CEUs
- CanFitPro - 4 CECs
- CATA - Approved
- REPs New Zealand - 20 CPD points
- CPTN- 14 CECs
- CCOA- 35 CC Hours
- BCRPA- 35 CECs
- BOC- 35 Category A CEUs
- NSCA - The National Strength and
Conditioning Association approved 2.0 CEU(s) in category C for certified individuals who successfully complete
this course.
Applied to:
- CIMSPA
We’re still waiting on a few approvals. PCES 2.0 was approved through all 50 states for PT and OT, so we anticipate that PCES 3.0 will be approved as well. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions!
Approved through petition (quick, easy form):
- ACE
- CSEP
- ACSM
- IFPA
- NFPT
- NETA
- AFPTE
- CCO (Ontario Chiropractors)
- DONA International
- ESSA
- AUSactive (restrictions apply)
- Many more!
Pre-Approved for PT/PTAs in:
- AR - 35 Hours
- AZ - 35 Hours
- CA - 35 Hours (CIAO24-110)
- FL - 40 Hours (CEBroker#20-1207566)
- GA - 35 Hours
- IL - 35 Hours
- NJ - 35 Hours (# 2708-27)
- NM - 35 Hours
- NY - 40 hours
- OH - 35.5 Hours (#24S2584)
- OK - 35 Hours
- SC - 35 Hours
- TN - 35 Hours
- TX - 35 CCUs (TPTA#2502009TX)
Pre-Approved for OT/COTAs in:
- This course meets PDU requirements for NBCOT (35 PDUs)
- AL - 35 Hours
- AZ - 35 Hours
- FL - 40 Hours (CEBroker#20-1207566)
- GA - 35 Hours
- LA - 35 Hours
- MS - 35 Hours
- NM - 35 Hours
- OH - 35 Hours (#24S2584)
- SC - 35 Hours
- TN - 35 Hours
- WV - 35 Hours (CIAO-F24-09)
Applied for PT/PTAs in:
- MN, NV
Applied for OT/COTAs in:
- NM
Meets Requirements for:*
- PT/PTAs in AL, AK, AZ, CO, CT, DC, DE, GA, HI, ID, IN, IA, KS, KY, MD, MA, MI, MO, MT, NE, NH, NC, ND, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, UT, VT, VA, WA, WI, WY
- OT/COTAs in AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
*Meets Requirements means either this course follows the state rules/regulations for a CE course, or the course is approved by an entity that the state recognizes as an approver.
Accreditation of this course does not necessarily imply that the entities approving this continuing education support the views of the presenter or the sponsors.
For Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists please see the below PDF for further approval information through CIAO.
See below for details:
How many credit hours is the course?
35 hours and 34 minutes of home study course material
How do I gain my certificate and credit for this course?
Watch all the lectures and pass the quiz at the end of each of the 8 sections with a 75% or better passing score and complete the course survey at the end.
Will the course material help women that are 5-20 years postpartum?
Yes! This course focuses on correcting dysfunctional movement patterns caused by pregnancy. That doesn’t matter if the woman is 6months or 16 years postpartum. The approach will still work!
What if I can't start on the date listed by each lesson?
No need to worry! This course is self-paced, so you can start and stop as needed. You’ll have lifetime access to the course so you can review the material as much as needed. You will, however, need to pass all your quizzes and submit your survey within one year of the purchase date for CEU credit.
How long will I have access to the course?
No need to worry! This course is self-paced, so you can start and stop as needed. You’ll have lifetime access to the course so you can review the material as much as needed. You will, however, need to pass all your quizzes and submit your survey within one year of the purchase date for CEU credit.
What if I don't pass the quiz?
No need to stress! You’ll get a copy of the quiz at the start of the course so you can keep the questions in mind as you go through it. Then you’ll have 3 attempts for a passing score of at least 75%. If it’s just not working for you after that, we can talk about tutoring. The main goal is for you to understand this information to apply it, not stress over a test.
What if I'm not in a health or wellness field but want to learn?
I’m all for learning, but this course is really geared toward instructors. We talk about advanced concepts. One of the online courses for non-wellness professions might be a better fit.
Can I download the course?
The course is video-based and on a streaming platform that doesn’t allow for video download. You can, however, download all the research studies for each week and reference the PCES Workbook delivered to your door. You will have lifetime access, so feel free to come back and review any videos you need at any time.
When can I expect my book?
The workbooks are mailed out at course closing. Depending on your location in the world it will take between 1-4 weeks for your book to arrive. The course is completely standalone without the workbook, so please feel free to get started on the videos right away!
Is there a payment plan?
Yes! Monthly payment plans are available for your convenience.
What if the course is not a good fit for me?
We think you’ll be so blown away by the material that won’t be an issue, but if it’s not a fit, it’s not a fit. We’ll happily give you a full refund within the first 30 days. We stand behind this course as being exceptional!
Just return your book in like-new condition (no folded corners or writing in the book) within 30 days for a full refund.
Provider will not cancel the course as it is online and pre-recorded and can be delivered to the Learner even if the Provider is not available.
Professional Compliance
Does this course give me a certification to work in the health or fitness industry?
Full Support Time Requirement
Other FAQ:
Education Level: No prerequisites are needed for this course for personal education. It's an introductory level course but detailed enough that even advanced learners will take something new away. You must have a level 2 or 3 qualifications to gain CIMSPA CE credit with this course.
Course Objectives and Information: Please send us an email at [email protected] and we're happy to provide you with the objectives, course outline, references, and any further information that you need.
Special Need Assistance: If assistance is needing with registering please email us at [email protected] and we would be happy to help!
Speaker has no financial disclosure
Learning Outcomes/Objectives
#1. Course participants will have an understanding of the current research behind making exercise safe during pregnancy and will be able to give specific examples of when to modify exercise during pregnancy.
#2. Course participants will learn how to identify which exercises are safe for pregnancy based on the trimester and the pregnant person's ability.
#3. Course participants will learn timelines for safe return to exercise postpartum and a step-by-step return to exercise programming.
#4. Course participants will understand common postpartum issues like pelvic floor dysfunction and diastasis recti and learn 3 exercises to help support and prevent each issue.
#5. Course participants will learn to assess posture and breathing and the best exercises to help optimize both during exercise.
#6. Course participants will take away and be able to apply corrective exercises to help prevent SI joint and low back pain in the pregnant and postpartum time periods.
Questions?
Final thoughts from Dr. Sarah
Helping women fully recover from pregnancy and childbirth became a burning passion of mine after I had trouble fully recovering from pregnancy due to the lack of high-quality advice for women. Even women that are working in the fitness and wellness industry are often ill-prepared to handle the issues that arise for their clients and their own bodies. I finished my doctorate work in 2008 with an emphasis on SI joint pain. The pelvis has always been an area of fascination for me, so I dove deeper into really understanding pelvic floor and diastasis issues postpartum. My research and experience working with women over the years have led me to some pretty interesting, groundbreaking ways of moving the body to promote healing. It’s those exercises and movement patterns that I’d like to share with you to help you get faster, better results that women deserve.
