Transformation Nation

If you've made the decision to embark on the journey of pregnancy, you probably have a million questions and concerns running through your head as you move into this phase of planning and trying. And as a busy, parent-to-be who values fitness and well-being, you may be wondering about how this is all going to affect and change you body.  I know for me, personally, it was the reason I got into this work. I spent 10 years in NYC as a professional modern dancer and the changes my body was going to go through during pregnancy was a big concern. That may sound vain, but my body was my business. I had spent my entire life training and strengthening it to be able to rehearse and perform. I wasn’t willing to risk injury or not being able to return to dancing in postpartum.  And here’s the most important thing I learned: PREVENTION IS KEY.   If you are thinking of becoming pregnant or already trying, now is the time to start taking some proactive steps to physically prepare your body f

As a fitness enthusiast, your commitment to staying active during pregnancy is probably non negotiable.  I know it was for me!  The problem is that there is a plethora of information out there which can cause a lot of confusion when it comes to the do's and don'ts of getting a safe and effective workout.   I'm here to help you clear up the questions and get back to moving your body with confidence.  Understanding a few key terms related to pregnancy and postpartum fitness will ensure that you are getting your brain and body exactly what it needs. So here you go: The 10 essential terms every pregnant fitness enthusiast should know , along with their significance in helping you achieve a healthy and balanced pregnancy and postpartum journey. 1. Corrective Exercise: Corrective exercises (CE) is the study of how your brain is sending signals to your muscles.  A customized CE plan is will packed with specialized movements that address your personal imbalances, weaknesses, or com

Congratulations on your pregnancy or the recent arrival of your tiny human!  Whew!  How are you holding up?  This journey is an absolute whirlwind, isn't it?     As an active and health-conscious mom myself, I know it's natural for you to want to prioritize your fitness and well-being during this transformative time. You may be chomping at the bit to get your body moving and feeling good.  I understand completely.  I want you to move and feel amazing as well.  However, it's essential to navigate your pregnancy and postpartum workouts with care.  You need to consider the changes your body is going through and recognize that every body, every pregnancy, and every postpartum recovery is unique. But I'm not here to add any more fear mongering.  You hear enough of that already.  The problem is with the amount of information overwhelm on the internet and social media.  It seems as if everyone is trying to give you advice and every influencer or fitness professional that'

Being a busy career professional and mom during pregnancy and postpartum can be overwhelming. We have been conditioned by society to think we “can have it all”.  I’m not here to burst your bubble but I often find that “having it all” means that our personal health and wellness tends to suffer.  To the world, we look like we are all put together but secretly suffering inside.  Juggling multiple responsibilities often leaves little time for self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I don’t have a magic fix for you, but I do have a few #lifehacks that my clients and I have picked up along the way. To simply sum it up, it’s all about simplifying your daily routine and reducing stress (note the bold highlight on that one).  Let’s start with one of my favs… NUTRITION Nutrition Tip #1: Plan 5 meals I know what you are thinking, “Joanie, please don’t tell me I have to make a meal plan.”  I’m sorry to say it, but streamlining your grocery shopping and meal prep by planning your meals in a

As parents, we often go to great lengths to ensure the well-being of our little ones. But have you ever considered how your own body's imbalances and habits can affect your baby's development? (As if we don't have enough to worry about it, right?! ) This parenthood journey is not just about taking care of ourselves, but also creating a balanced environment for our children. There is a fascinating connection between muscular imbalances in parents and their babies. I've seen, first hand, with clients how correcting these imbalances can create change and have a positive impact on both you and your child's body. The Ripple Effect: Parents' Habits and Baby's Muscular Imbalances A client of mine is a mom of 2 and I noticed one day while we were training with her baby (because #momlife) that she consistently held her baby on her left hip and side.  I asked her to do the next set of exercises while holding the baby on her right hip instead of left. When this happen