Rachel Robertson is a kinesiologist and Pilates specialist with over a decade of experience helping others overcome physical limitations and rebuild trust in their bodies. She blends science and movement artistry to support injury recovery and sustainable strength.
A two-time World Kettlebell Champion and community wellness advocate, Rachel also educates fellow kinesiologists through workshops and webinars. She holds a Kinesiology degree from the University of Western Ontario and is a recognized member of BCAK.
Her passion for movement, shaped by her athletic background and personal journey, continues to inspire clients and professionals alike.
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Common Myths in Prenatal and Postnatal Exercise Rachel Robertson addressed the myth that exercise can only begin at six weeks postpartum, clarifying that safe movement is possible sooner and emphasizing that the healing journey is a two-year process, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional adaptations. They also debunked the myth about avoiding rotation during pregnancy, explaining that controlled rotation is safe, unlike forceful movements. Rachel Robertson further discussed avoiding "doming" in the abdomen to prevent diastasis recti, noting that while it is a common concern, it is often unavoidable and can be managed with awareness and controlled movements.
Functional Movement and Daily Life Integration Rachel Robertson and Brooke Harmer discussed how daily movements, such as picking up a toddler or sitting, are forms of exercise that can be corrected for better form and safety, challenging the idea that certain movements should be avoided entirely during pregnancy or injury. Rachel Robertson emphasized educating clients on how to integrate safe movement practices into their daily lives, such as engaging abdominal muscles during exercise, to build body awareness and prevent injury. Brooke Harmer concluded that movement modification during pregnancy and postpartum should stem from information and functionality rather than fear, aiming to make daily life easier.
Early Postpartum Movement and Healing Rachel Robertson explained that early postpartum movement varies greatly depending on the delivery experience, emphasizing that initial movements can be as simple as walking five to ten minutes, even within the house. They highlighted the importance of gentle movements, foam rolling, stretching, and particularly breath work as integral parts of the healing process, aiding in retraining the diaphragm and rib cage muscles. Rachel Robertson stressed that breath work helps recenter the body, promotes relaxation, decreases stress, and improves recovery, and that the first six weeks postpartum are crucial for gentle movement, rest, and recovery, without weight-bearing exercises.
Pilates for Motherhood Transitions Rachel Robertson described Pilates as a low-impact, mind-body exercise that helps individuals connect with their bodies during motherhood, especially when dealing with physical changes and conditions like morning sickness. They explained that Pilates focuses on pelvic stability and the integration of small muscles, teaching both contraction and relaxation of the pelvic floor, and syncing breath with abdominal and pelvic floor movements. Rachel Robertson noted that Pilates workouts can be adapted to an individual's daily energy levels and stress, which is particularly beneficial for unpredictable postpartum energy.
Tailoring Workouts to Emotional and Physical Needs Rachel Robertson emphasized adapting workouts based on how one feels, adjusting intensity for stress reduction or challenge. They shared their personal experience of realizing that pushing too hard in workouts led to exhaustion, indicating a need to pull back and adjust duration, frequency, or type of exercise, leading to their two-year recovery plan. Brooke Harmer resonated with this, stating that movement should be viewed as medicine, tailored to fit physical and emotional needs in the moment, regardless of whether one needs an intense session or a more meditative workout.
Getting Back into Movement Postpartum Rachel Robertson advised starting with simple activities like walking, acknowledging the challenges new parents face in getting out of the house. They stressed the importance of finding a supportive coach or community, like mom's groups or stroller fitness, and redefining exercise to include various forms and intensities, noting that constant high-intensity workouts lead to burnout. Rachel Robertson emphasized that consistency comes from finding activities one genuinely enjoys, rather than forcing oneself to do exercises that are agonizing or dreaded.
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