A big thank you to Ellie for sharing her story and her experience of working with us before, during and now after the birth of her gorgeous daughter. Ellie is a pleasure to work with and one determined lady who has certainly mastered the art of exercising whilst keeping her little one entertained – you’re a super star Ellie
“When I started training with Áine in April 2020, the aim was to ‘lose some weight’ – this is the phrase I was using, when I really meant that I wanted to feel and look healthier. I quickly learned that doing exercise could be enjoyable, satisfying and as much about my mental well-being as it was about my physical well-being. I found myself becoming more cognisant of what I was buying from the supermarket, the variety of meals I made during the busy working week, the amount I moved during the day, and how to include more protein in my diet…it was a transformative experience and I loved seeing the impact! I learned a lot about my body and my mind, and was hugely satisfied feeling my body become more toned, healthy and full of energy. That’s why when I found out I was pregnant I was a little apprehensive about all the new changes to come…
I spoke to Áine very early on about the pregnancy, as I was keen to make sure that my new exercise routines were going to support it. Áine immediately begun to adapt our sessions to suit my waning energy levels and my nerves about the precious cargo that I was now carrying to each session. She listened sensitively to my pregnancy anecdotes and made absolute sure that I was comfortable and happy with our training approach. This involved: pelvic floor exercises (so important); avoiding too much time on my back; focusing on breathing, and taking more breaks. These adaptations, coupled with Áine’s caring approach, meant that I could continue exercising regularly up to 34 weeks… and I’m immensely glad that I did. Towards the end I was mostly waddling my way through, but it felt great to just be moving and listening to my body.
Changing shape so dramatically felt somewhat strange, but as a response to this I was determined to feel healthier than ever. Sana Vita Health’s guidance around healthy, balanced diets continued to drive my desire to make sure my body – and now another little body – was getting what it needed. Áine’s Instagram is always filled with great recipes, and although I don’t share her enthusiasm for nuts, I am often taking ideas! Throughout the journey, Áine showed genuine enthusiasm for, and fascination in, my pregnancy process; I was immensely grateful.
I waited six weeks’ post-partum before I picked up our sessions again after the go-ahead from the doctor. Once again, Áine’s priority was to listen to me as I listened to my body; she designed training sessions which welcomed me back smoothly into the process of stretching and moving, whilst also challenging me (I like to be challenged!). The reality is that fitting exercise into life with a new-born is a challenge in itself, but it is truly rewarding when I do find some time to myself to exercise. Áine is able to record sessions should I have to tend to the baby, and is available to help with fitness and nutrition questions when needed. When I look back on my pregnancy, labour and post-partum recovery, I do feel that I benefited hugely from the effort that I had been putting into staying fit and healthy. Thank you, Áine!”
