Debunking The Biggest Myth in Pregnancy: “Take It Easy” with Dara Cook, Founder and CEO of Expect Fitness

What if we thought about pregnancy the same way we think about running a marathon?In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Dara Cook, founder and CEO of Expect Fitness, the first and only pre and postnatal fitness program approved by OBGYNs. Dara shares the powerful research that compares pregnancy to the physical demand of running a marathon, and why understanding this matters for every woman.We break down why movement during pregnancy isn’t just safe, it’s essential. We explore how pregnancy impacts the body, why preparation changes outcomes, and how the “take it easy” narrative is harming women.What we cover:• Why pregnancy places marathon-level stress on the body• The importance of prenatal strength training• How exercise reduces risks like gestational diabetes & hypertension• Cardiovascular changes in pregnancy & postpartum• Why the U.S. is facing a maternal health crisis• How movement protects long-term metabolic and heart health• Simple steps to prepare your body for pregnancy, delivery, and recoveryThis episode will completely shift how you think about pregnancy, maternal health, and the role fitness plays in preventing complications and chronic disease.If you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or supporting someone who is, this conversation is a must-listen.Where to find Dara?Expect Fitness Instagram Get full access to Shift Into Alignment at shiftintoalignment.substack.com/subscribe