I help moms get back to running successfully after having their baby
Whether this is your first or your 4th baby, you're likely tired and exhausted from caring for a newborn. You're dying to get back to running, mentally, but physically, you just can't fathom how you'll have the time or the energy for anything.
You’re tender and sore from giving birth wondering when you can even sit comfortably let alone get back into running like you were pre-pregnancy
You’re still experiencing pregnancy related pain, like pelvic girdle pain, low back pain, new hip and knee pain or even sciatica.
Maybe you're leaking a little (or a lot) every time you cough, sneeze, laugh, squat down or try to play with your kids.
Your belly feels like a bowl of Jell-O and you're starting to wonder if you'll ever get your core and ab strength back.
You may have a significant diastasis or ab separation that you didn't think was "that bad" before but now you're wondering if you'll be able to run like this.
On top of that, your maternity leave is too short. How can you justify taking time away from your baby and family to exercise and run when your time together is so limited before going back to work.
If you’re afraid of doing too much, too soon, but need some normalcy back into your life through running, I can help you prioritize your physical and mental fitness without sacrificing your parenting.
I have been in your exact place. I've had severe exhaustion (my babies do NOT sleep as newborns!) coupled with significant pelvic girdle pain. I often wondered during pregnancy and even into postpartum if I would ever get back to running successfully again!
I've had clients who have suffered extreme pain during pregnancy or have been on prolonged bed rest who have been able to recover and get back to running consistently.
But I want you to know that you can get back to running successfully postpartum, no matter what struggles you're facing right now.
I’ve refined this method and put it into my signature Return to Run Postpartum Program so other moms, like you, don't struggle or take more time than necessary to continue your fitness journey.
Not only will you heal your pelvic floor, but you'll strengthen your core, prevent injuries and get back to running with only a short weekly time commitment, because I know first hand that your time and energy is at an absolute premium right now!
Heal your pelvic floor to eliminate your pain and reduce your stress so you can have more fun!
The postpartum journey can be uncomfortable, frustrating and embarrassing. What’s with the heaviness down there? Will you ever be able to laugh or sneeze again without doing that cross-legged thing? And how the heck are you going to run comfortably with these huge, new, nursing boobs?
As a mom of 3, I understand what you’re feeling. How confusing and tiring all this change can be.
I coach my clients through their postpartum journey with a focus on body awareness education allowing each individual to find what techniques work for them so they can:
heal and prevent pelvic floor issues, like leaking, pain and ab separation.
Get back out on the road or trail as quickly as possible after delivery.
Just get to running already--it doesn't take hours a day to rehab your body.
Step back into running methodically so they don’t have to worry about getting injured
Run and play with their kids without a second thought about pain or leaking.
Choose any other color of pants besides black --Yes!
Most importantly, my clients begin to feel normal again. Where everyday activities become easier, like going up stairs, carrying their children, doing the laundry and washing the dishes without pain or discomfort.
16 WEEK RETURN TO RUN POSTPARTUM PROGRAM
Hey there Mama, I'm Rachel Pope.
PHYSICAL THERAPIST | LONG-TIME DISTANCE RUNNER | MAMA OF 3
Trying to manage little ones and exercise can be overwhelming with your limited time, but it doesn’t have to be.
Your time as a Mom is precious. That’s why prioritizing your health and well-being is so essential. When you feel strong, confident and pain-free, you and your family benefit from that!
Yet, you still worry about your time and energy.
As of this writing, my kids are 20, 3 and 1, so I understand how busy life can be. I can also tell you how much more enjoyable life becomes when you take action in favour of your health.
Through deliberate action, I’ve prioritized my running while raising my children from infant to toddler through to teenager. So, whatever stage of motherhood you're in, I've been there, and I can help you through it.
I know what it's like firsthand. It can be so frustrating when all you want to do is to go for a run, but your body just won't cooperate or isn't ready. I’ve certainly run the gamut of being angry, disappointed and just sad at my postpartum body for not being able to do what I wanted it to.
As a physical therapist, I value research and education. All of my recommendations and exercises are research-based, supported in the current guidelines and literature. That way, my clients are always up-to-date on what the BEST way to rehab is. Further, I am currently in the process of becoming a Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist so that I better support my clients through their rehab sooner, allowing them to get back into running successfully!
Over the course of my career, I have helped countless moms regain their confidence and strength while eliminating their pain so they can get back to doing what they love. It’s my passion.
Read more about me HERE.
You love running. You need it in your life, that’s why you’ve already tried to get back into it yourself.
Yet, you’re not seeing the results you want from:
Talking to your doctor, a chiropractor or even another PT. It’s been a lot of time and money, and you’re still not where you want to be
Doing kegels
Getting a jump start early on postpartum
Just waiting a long time after your last baby to begin again
Googling and searching for your own training plans/Pinterest ideas/DIY courses
You crave running and are ready to get a hand jump starting your running journey
Have limited time to dedicate to your fitness but can’t wait to start feeling like yourself again
There's a running event you have your eye on and you want to be sure that you are up to speed on your training to be able to do it
You're ready to invest into your postpartum recovery and get back to doing ALL the things you love, including running and playing with your kids
urinary incontinence AKA leaking or peeing with exertion like coughing, sneezing, laughing, jumping and running
diastasis recti or abdominal separation that can occur in pregnancy
the feeling of dragging or heaviness in the vagina (a sign of possible prolapse)
pain that includes low back or sacroiliac (SI) pain, pelvic joint pain (like symphysis pubis dysfunction/pelvic girdle pain), and even hip or knee pain
You're unable to commit 20-30 minutes on most days of the week to exercise
You're not ready or motivated to invest into your health and wellness to heal and strengthen your pelvic floor
You've accepted pregnancy or postpartum pain as "normal" (HINT: it's not!) and are ok with not being able to do the things you once could
You had an ‘easy’ delivery or a C-section and don’t think you need pelvic floor rehab
You think it's normal to have doming or tenting of your stomach when you work out and it will just go away on its own
You're ok with peeing your pants leaking when you laugh/sneeze/cough or play with your kids
You're ok with telling your kid(s) that you can't pick them up or play with them because you're hurt, unable or have a "boo-boo"
More than anything, I want you to get stronger and be more confident in your postpartum body so that you can get back to running and become a better version of yourself.
16 weeks of coaching
Weeks 1-11 are spent restoring your core and pelvic floor to get you ready to start running by week 12
8 virtual coaching calls
All calls are led by me so you'll get personalized attention, all your questions and concerns addressed. Calls are structured as group calls. Anyone who is currently enrolled is able to come on the call. You may be the only one on, or there may be others with you. I have found that group calls are more effective in helping my clients reach their goals faster. A sense of community and support is created when you are going through the same thing with others. Many moms benefit from the questions asked by others, because it wasn't something they would have thought of on their own. So think of it as extended coaching! |
Weekly exercise training session
A new exercise video is available for each week that you can follow along with and replay as often as needed. Each week new exercises are added or progressed so you won't get bored doing the same things over and over. Each video is approximately 30 minutes long to accommodate your busy schedule. You'll have the option of adding weights, resistance bands, but these are optional and not necessary (definitely a plus, though!) Cardio training instruction You will be coached on how to progress your cardiovascular training so that when the time comes to start running again, your heart and lungs will be ready for it. You'll be guided on how to increase your pace, time, intensity and frequency of exercise. And I'll even give you different cardio options. Run Training Plan When the time comes to start running, I will be with you each step of the way. I will outline how much to do and how often. You'll have a written training schedule available to you. Supporting reference materials you can save and print In addition to the weekly videos, you'll have written materials describing each of the weekly key exercises in detail. Each exercise also has a mini-demo video. You'll be able to use this as a reference, and as an option to do your weekly exercises if you'd rather not watch the video replay. You'll also have a weekly outline of what the plan and goals are for the week, so you know what to expect week to week. Private VIP Facebook group for clients only In between coaching calls, you will have 24 hour access to me to ask any questions that come up for you. This is also the place to get added support, encouragement or motivation when you need it. I encourage you to share your wins, victories and accomplishments with the group as you move through the program so we can celebrate with you. BONUS: Strength Training Weekly videos also include strengthening exercises for your arms and back to help work on your posture and running form. This will help you with day-to-day things like carrying your kids, holding your infant car seat, posture and positioning with nursing/feeding and eventually your posture and running technique. BONUS: Nursing and Running Video Training Video: Running Postpartum-Sports Bras, Nursing and Breast Health BONUS: Gear Guide Women's Ultimate Guide to Run Gear, the all weather and safety guide with specifics on postpartum gear, sports bras and even underwear BONUS: Gentle Stretch Routine Video Exercise Video: Gentle Stretch Routine for Postpartum Moms |
Take your health into your own hands. Don’t let your excuses stop you from being the Mom you can be. So, are you ready to hit your stride again?
Book a 45 minute call and we’ll see if we’re a good fit together. During this call you can ask me any lingering questions or concerns that you have and I’ll get to know more about you and your postpartum journey.
You can take my word for it, but I'd rather let my clients do the talking.
Coaching calls twice per month (8 calls total) with Rachel so you can ask questions and get help in key areas to ensure your success. Get personalized responses and the support you need.
Follow along with a new exercise session each week. New exercises are added and progressed every single week so you’ll be challenged with diversified activities. Each video is approximately 30 minutes & you can replay as often as you need!
24 hour access via private, client-only FaceBook group, to Rachel to ask any questions that come up between coaching calls so you are supported every step of the way.
Downloadable and printable materials including a weekly Goal Outline so you know what to expect for the week ahead as well as Key Exercises with technique descriptions and short video demonstrations.
Access to the private VIP client only FaceBook group where you can ask questions and form a close community & friendships with other moms on their postpartum run journey.
24 hour access to Rachel to ask any questions that come up between coaching calls so you are supported every step of the way.
In addition to all of the above, you’ll get bonus videos including (1) Running Postpartum: Sports Bras, Nursing and Breast health and (2) Gentle Stretch Routine for Postpartum Moms. You’ll also get a downloadable pdf of the Women’s Ultimate Guide to Run Gear with lots of postpartum friendly recommendations.
This is too good a deal to pass up!
No worries, you'll have the chance to submit any questions ahead of time so that I can answer them during the call. All calls will be recorded and available on replay.
There is no start date. This program has rolling enrollment. Meaning you start as soon as you sign up! No waiting until the next "session" because there isn't one!!
I'm a mom of 3, so I totally get it. This program was designed with that in mind and is totally achievable if you can carve out 30 minutes to do your exercises 5-7 days a week. I will work with you to ensure that you have strategies in place so that you are successful in getting back to running. That said, if you still feel that 30 minutes is too much to manage right now, you can certainly wait to start when you feel that you can more reliably dedicate your time.
I would challenge you to ask yourself if it's actual finances holding you back or you're just not feeling comfortable spending money on yourself. If it's finances, I'd be happy to work with you on a payment plan or to explore ways to find resources to participate. If you're not feeling comfortable, sit with why that is, and ask yourself "Am I willing to step outside my comfort zone to be transformed and meet my goals?"
I love having husbands/significant others join us at our Return to Run Planning Session. In fact, I encourage it! That way everyone is on the same page, hears the same information and gets all their questions answered. Let's find a time that works for everyone, and if childcare is an issue--have the kids on, too! Believe me, I know how it can be!
You will have access as soon as you enroll, and access ends when you complete your 16th week of the program.
In most cases, no, you do not get an extra week. The program is designed to be manageable time-wise for busy moms. Modifications are given for almost every exercise, so even if you miss a few days, you can still move on to the next session in the series without issue. If there is an extenuating circumstance, then I will make a decision on a case-by-case basis.
All moms at any stage postpartum! It doesn’t matter if your baby is 1 day old or 1 year old (or older!). And don’t worry if you ran up until delivery, or if it’s been months or years since you last ran--I’ve got you covered! Every exercise in this program has been carefully chosen based on the most recent research and evidence out there.
Women can usually tell if they have issues based on their symptoms. You can also see your doctor, midwife or physical therapist for an official diagnosis, but this is not necessary to participate in the program. Pelvic floor issues include:
urinary incontinence AKA leaking or peeing with exertion like coughing, sneezing, laughing, jumping and running
diastasis recti or abdominal separation that can develop in pregnancy
the feeling of dragging or heaviness in the vagina (a sign of possible prolapse)
pain that includes low back or sacroiliac (SI) pain, pelvic joint pain (like symphysis pubis dysfunction/pelvic girdle pain), and even hip or knee pain
Every exercise has been carefully chosen based on the stage of postpartum healing you're in or the level of strength you’re at to ensure that you will be progressing safely. Additionally, I have used this program twice myself and have taken previous clients through it with excellent success.
Nothing in life is a guarantee, BUT, the exercises are designed to help you develop better control and coordination of your pelvic floor WITH your core, so it's more than likely that it will help. All of my clients have seen an improvement with their leaking so far.
My pelvic floor seems fine, but I've had hip and back pain off and on for years, will these exercises help me?
Sometimes nagging pain or injuries that keep popping up over and over are actually due to a poor functioning core and pelvic floor. So even if you don't have leaking, prolapse or an ab separation, if you have pain in the hips, back, SI joint or knees, this could be related to the pelvic floor! The muscles of our hips and back have connections to our abdominal and pelvic floor muscles!
Yes, absolutely! This program will prepare you not only for getting back to running but running for the first time. In fact, I had a client who did just this!! Not only did she heal her pelvic pain but she became a first time runner!
This program is specifically designed for the postpartum mom, but I welcome you to schedule a Return to Run Planning Session to see if it's a good fit for you once your baby arrives. This is actually a perfect time to conduct the session and make a decision before you're also managing a newborn! If you decide to enroll, you can hold your spot and start after delivery. If you're looking for specific guidance while still pregnant, I also offer coaching for pregnant moms, too!
I find that my clients who experience this program as a group generally do better, get more out of it and are more successful. You will have opportunities on the coaching calls for individualized attention.
You will have 24/7 access to me in the VIP Facebook group for anything that comes up for you between sessions. If you want additional 1:1 coaching session(s), rates and scheduling can be reviewed with you.
As a physical therapist and a coach, I've learned that nothing in life is a guarantee. What I can tell you is that I have had only successes so far with the dozens of women whom I have worked with (both in a PT and coaching capacity). These are women who show up and do their exercises regularly. This program works if you do the work. I am 100% committed to you and will work with you to the very best of my ability to ensure that you are successful.
If we get on a Return to Run Planning Call, and I don't feel that this program is right for you, I will let you know. This program is not for everyone. But, if I feel that you will benefit and be able to heal your core and pelvic floor to reach your running goals, then I will invite you in.
Do you offer refunds?
No, as a general rule, I do not. You are paying for a coaching service and electronic materials. My time that I dedicate to you in the program is non-refundable, meaning it's something that I cannot get back.
If you want more information, book a call with me so we can go over all of your concerns and make sure this program is the right fit for you to get back to running.
Book a Return to Run Planning Session to apply today. I can't wait to get started with you on your postpartum return to run journey!