Episode 1, Redefining Strong: The Truth About Fitness Before And After Birth With Nancy Best

Exercise during pregnancy and after birth can be hugely beneficial, but knowing what is safe, realistic and actually helpful is not always straightforward.In this episode of A Long Way To Go, journalist and host Katie O’Malley is joined by Nancy Best, qualified personal trainer, pre and postnatal fitness specialist, and founder of Ladies Who Crunch, to unpack what movement really looks like during pregnancy and postpartum.Together, they discuss how the body changes during pregnancy, how to adapt exercise safely, what recovery after birth actually involves, the truth about the six-week check, diastasis recti, pelvic floor support, and how to rebuild strength without rushing or buying into the “bounce back” narrative.This episode is for anyone who has felt confused by conflicting advice, nervous about exercising while pregnant, unsure how to return to movement after birth, or overwhelmed by social media’s version of postpartum fitness.Because returning to exercise after having a baby is not about getting your old body back. It is about understanding what your body has been through, rebuilding safely, and feeling supported as you find your way back to strength.Follow ⁠@alongwaytogclub⁠ for more conversations on pregnancy, postpartum and women’s health.Follow Nancy Best and Ladies Who Crunch on Instagram ⁠here⁠.This episode is for information only and should not replace personalised medical advice. If you are concerned about your health during pregnancy or postpartum, please speak to your GP, midwife, health visitor or relevant healthcare professional.⁠SUBSCRIBE⁠ABOUT KATIE O'MALLEYKatie O'Malley is a journalist, broadcaster and founder of A Long Way To Go. During her career she's interviewed everyone from Oprah Winfrey to Margot Robbie and is on a mission to ensure every woman has access to research-led, expert-informed information about pregnancy and postpartum so they can advocate for their wellbeing.