In this episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa Spina is joined by Dr. Christina Prevett, physiotherapist, researcher, and expert in women's health, strength training, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and healthy aging.
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Dr. Prevett shares why women are not fragile — and why strength training can be one of the most protective tools across the female lifespan. They discuss the latest evidence on resistance training during pregnancy, including heavy lifting, Valsalva/breath holding, pelvic floor concerns, miscarriage fears, diastasis recti, and returning to exercise postpartum.
They also explore why muscle is essential for aging powerfully, how pre-frailty can be reversed, and why women in perimenopause, menopause, and beyond should feel empowered to build strength instead of being told to "do less."
In this episode, we discuss:
• The benefits of resistance training during pregnancy
• Heavy lifting and pregnancy: what the latest evidence shows
• Pelvic floor myths and misconceptions
• Breath holding (Valsalva) and lifting safely while pregnant
• Diastasis recti: what it is and what the research says
• Returning to exercise after vaginal birth and C-section
• Why strength training supports mental health during pregnancy and postpartum
• Pre-frailty and how it can be reversed
• Building muscle for longevity, independence, and healthy aging
• Common myths about women's health and exercise circulating on social media
• Why fear-based fitness advice can hold women back from thriving
Dr. Prevett's work is helping redefine how we think about strength training across the female lifespan—from pregnancy and postpartum to menopause and beyond. This episode is packed with practical insights and empowering evidence-based guidance for women who want to build strength, preserve muscle, improve body composition, and age powerfully.
Study Participation Note: During this conversation, Dr. Prevett discusses several pregnancy, postpartum, strength training, and running studies that were actively recruiting participants at the time of recording. Recruitment status may have changed since this episode was recorded. For the most up-to-date information on current research opportunities, please visit Dr. Prevett's Instagram profile (@dr.christina_prevett) and follow the links in her bio.
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Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast.
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The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.
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