Our Methodology
How We Review Postpartum Recovery Programs
Every program on FitPreferred is evaluated against the same criteria — built from my background as a Certified Athletic Trainer and my own experience recovering from four pregnancies.
What We Evaluate
Our Review Criteria
Instructor Credentials
Who created the program, and what’s their training? We look for postpartum-specific certification, physical therapy input, or a documented working relationship with pelvic floor / diastasis recti specialists.
Safe Progression
Does the program start with foundational core reconnection before adding load or intensity? Programs that jump into high-impact movement too early get flagged, regardless of results claimed.
Diastasis Recti Awareness
Does the program explain what diastasis recti is, how to check for it, and modify movements accordingly? This is non-negotiable for anything we recommend.
Realistic Pacing
Recovery isn’t linear, and it isn’t fast. We favor programs that set honest expectations over ones promising quick fixes or a specific timeline back to “pre-baby body.”
Instruction Quality
Clear cueing, visible form demonstration, and modifications shown on screen — not just a voiceover. If we can’t tell whether we’re doing a movement correctly, neither can you.
Transparent Pricing
Clear cost, clear refund policy, no hidden auto-renewals or bait-and-switch upsells. We check this directly before recommending anything.
“I turn down more programs than I recommend. If it wouldn’t have been safe for my own recovery, it doesn’t go on this site — no matter how good the marketing looks.”
— Jamie, Founder & Certified Athletic Trainer
Red Flags
What Disqualifies a Program
We turn down far more programs than we recommend. Here’s what rules a program out immediately:
- No mention of diastasis recti, pelvic floor health, or postpartum-specific modifications
- High-impact or high-intensity movement introduced before a foundational recovery phase
- No visible instructor credentials or verifiable background
- Marketing built around rapid “bounce back” timelines or before/after weight-loss claims
- No clear pricing, refund policy, or terms before purchase
- No guidance on when to stop and consult a doctor or pelvic floor physical therapist
Behind the Scenes
How We Actually Test Each Program
Research the Creator
We verify credentials and check for postpartum-specific expertise behind the program.
Go Through the Program
We review the actual content and progression, not just the sales page.
Check Real Feedback
We look at how results in practice compare to what’s promised.
Score Against Our Criteria
Every program is measured the same way — no exceptions for bigger commissions.
See the Programs That Passed
Every program on our comparison page has been evaluated using this exact process.
Compare Programs →