My Why
In 2018 I got pregnant with my oldest son, Benji. Soon after, I realized how little guidance and resources there were for womxn who wanted to stay active in pregnancy. I felt overwhelmed with the “what not to do’s,” and generalized recommendations I read online. There were very few people I could find teaching about long-term core and pelvic floor health and fitness training for a pregnant body.
Two pregnancies and postpartum recoveries has taught me a lot about my body, patience, mindset, and the incredible strength of all womxn. I’ve learned how to exercise and move in a way that supports my long-term health.
Pregnant and postpartum people have unique needs that are very individualized. We need guidance, support, and more than blanket statements. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to learn as much as possible and educate and empower women others their own pregnant/postpartum bodies for long-term success and health.
Family
My husband and I welcomed our son Benjamin (Benji) in December 2018. Going through IVF to conceive our son was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, both physically and mentally. Trying to conceive and getting pregnant is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The journey looks different for everyone, as does pregnancy and postpartum. On my blog and social media channels I share the ups and downs of motherhood. I offer you love, honesty, support, and a little humor — it truly takes a village.
My husband and were grateful to add to our family with the birth of our second son, Micah, in January 2021.
Hi! My name is Erica and I'm a mom, Postnatal Fitness Coach, and lover of all things movement and avocado (let's be real - chocolate too!). I help women in all phases of motherhood get strong and build confidence via whole body strength training for your core and pelvic floor.
What makes me different: I love working with athletes looking to bridge the gap from postpartum rehab to dynamic activity and return to sport. After having a baby it's completely normal for movement to feel different. Our bodies have gone through a lot! I bring a thoughtful progression, education on pelvic floor health, breathing, and a TON of passion for helping you move well (and I love to refer out to Pelvic Floor PTs).
I truly love what I do and supporting moms during this season of life. We deserve the best and I feel honored to be a part of your care team.
I currently offer 1:1 personal training in San Diego at Empower Physical Therapy, as well as virtual 1:1 consultations.
Let’s get to know each other
I fell in love with movement at a young age. I remember soccer games, long walks with my family, and Tae Bo sessions with my mom in our living room as a kid. Exercise has always had a place in my life, and I’ve experimented with a lot of activities over the years.
During my first pregnancy I continued the workouts I loved and learned to adapt with a growing belly. I sweat, wobbled, and pushed my way through sweat sessions and fun right to my due date. After Benji was born I craved moving my body. I wanted to run, lift, sweat, and feel like my old self again.
I soon realized that after having my first son my body needed a little extra love and support. That came in the form of slowing down, moving mindfully, and seeking help from a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist. I also started taking courses, learning more about Pregnant & Postpartum bodies and training.
I’m even stronger now. Over the years I’ve learned to move in a way that feels good, and gives me the energy to keep up with both of my boys. I have a deep passion for supporting other moms and taking courses and expanding my knowledge.
My family and I are based in sunny San Diego. I look forward to connecting with you, both in person or virtually.
Press & Interviews
Edmonds Moms Room Podcast with Dr. Allison Feldt
Very Well Fit – How to Safely Workout Postpartum in the COVID-19 Era
Shoutout SoCal Interview – February 2021
San Diego Voyager – Rising Star: Erica Friedman
How your fitness coach and physiotherapist can work together for you (Mommy Berries Podcast)
Meet the postnatal pros from PFSA (To Birth and Beyond Podcast)
Canvas Rebel – Meet Erica Friedman
Mama Wears Athleisure Podcast - Exercising While Pregnant
Postpartum in San Diego – Support for all San Diego Moms
Core Training for Everyone - Podcast Episode with Stephanie Thompson
Postpartum Movement Series - The First 6 Weeks with Nicci of The StressLess Lifestyle
Exploring Life & Business with Erica Friedman of Erica Friedman Wellness
Empowering Moms Through Pre-and Postnatal Coaching - YMyHealth
Navigating the Athlete’s Journey from Postpartum to Peak Performance - YMyHealth
Continuing Education
I am a lifelong student and continue to learn to support my journey, as well as my clients. Below is additional coursework and certifications completed 🙂
NASM – National Association of Sports Medicine – Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
Girls Gone Strong – Certified Pre- & Postnatal Coach (CPPC)
Sarah Duvall – Pregnancy & Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES)
Sarah Duvall - Pelvis Pro (in process)
Brianna Battles – Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism (PPA)
Jessie Mundell – Postnatal Fitness Specialist Academy (PFSA)
Katie St. Clair – Empowered Performance. I continue to learn from Katie St. Claire in the monthly Academy Mentorship.
MamasteFit – Fitness Trainer Course
Alex Effer - Evolve Mentorship
Workshops and seminars with Ian Markow, Zac Cupples (Human Matrix), Brianna Battles, and Antony Lo, along with countless podcasts, blog posts, and learning. My goal is to truly understand the WHY so I can help myself and my clients move well <3
YOU READY? LET'S GO!
Hi! I’m Erica and I’m so happy you’re here!
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