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After the success of last year’s event in September 23, we proudly partnered with the Defence Women’s Network as they hosted their second Perinatal Festival.
The festival featured a comprehensive programme, including perinatal-friendly weightlifting, cardio, a swimming session, flexibility, mobility, and pelvic floor work. Attendees were also treated to talks and a myriad of pop-up stands offering perinatal information, advice, and support.
The in-person event was tailored for both military and civilian members at any stage of pregnancy, as well as those who have experienced pregnancy loss within the last 3 years and aimed to enhance their understanding of fitness throughout pregnancy.
The Defence Perinatal Festival offered pregnant and post-natal servicewomen and civil servants vital support and information on physical fitness pre- and post-pregnancy, including nutrition, and wellbeing. It also aimed to combat the stigma surrounding fitness during pregnancy, helping to provide a safer return to work, one with less risk of injury or anxiety about engaging in physical fitness post-pregnancy.
Specialist Pelvic Health Physiotherapist & APF volunteer, Sarah Thorne gave an inspiring talk leaving the audience, of both women and men, squeezing in the aisles! Katie Walker, winner of the Personal Trainer of the Year Award at the APF Awards 2023, also came along to share her expertise.
It really was a fantastic event, providing a platform for women to share experiences, knowledge, and learn from subject matter experts on preparing, protecting, and caring for their bodies both pre- and post-pregnancy. We can’t wait to join them again next year!
Katie Walker, APF CEO Sally Kettle & Sarah Thorne
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