Trainer spotlight
Rikki Cortese
Co-Owner, Personal Trainer,
Pre/Postnatal Fitness Specialist
1.) What inspired you to become a personal trainer?
In short, my babies. My own pregnancy and postpartum experiences me urged me to explore the perinatal fitness world because I needed answers myself for some of the things I was experiencing. I felt called to bridge the gap between exercise, pregnancy and postpartum recovery and to bring more awareness to women’s health in general, especially during this very specific time in motherhood.
2.) How long have you been in the fitness industry?
7 years as of 2025
3.) What certifications, degrees, or qualifications do you hold?
NASM, Perinatal Fitness Specialist (PFS), Pregnancy and Postpartum Athleticism Coach (PPA). In progress: Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES)
4.) What is your fitness philosophy or approach to training clients?
Since I work with a more specific clientele, my philosophy reflects that.
- Be as proactive with your recovery as you can be.
- Continue to progress exercises to prepare you for the demands of motherhood.
- Stay patient and play the long game.
5.) Can you share a memorable success story from your time as a trainer?
Gosh! There are so many exciting success stories. One that stands out is a mom of 4 who started working with me the VERY first year I started training. She was about 6 months PP with her first. Fast forward, we are STILL working together, 6 years later and currently rehabbing postpartum after her 4th sweet babes. In her words, “This is the best recovery she’s had so far.” Incredible!!
Ok one more BIG one. A mom who had a very traumatic birth experience diagnosed with a more severe grade of prolapse. Her overall quality of life suffered and she was very fearful of making it worse, but knew she wanted to be proactive in her recovery so she could be the most active and present mom for her babies. After a year of rehab, symptoms improved drastically. She felt confident lifting her baby + all the baby stuff, playing and feeling “normal” again. She continued training through her 2nd pregnancy. Had a wonderful delivery and strong recovery and hasn’t looked back. THAT is why I coach women and mothers. HOPE!! These stories are everything.
6.) What types of training or fitness modalities do you specialize in?
Pre and Postnatal Fitness and Personal Training
7.) What is one positive thing clients should expect when they are working with you?
Empowered. I want moms to feel more educated and empowered in their new bodies and to take on motherhood with confidence. Also, someone that is trustworthy, Respectful, Inclusive and Attentive. I want clients to feel comfortable when working with me and that they are welcome and cared for holistically.
8.) How do you tailor training programs to meet the individual needs of clients in both a 1 on 1 and group setting?
You ask the clients a lot of questions, listen carefully and read body language. Not only knowing aches and pains, past health history, occupation, but how they are sleeping, what their stress is like, what their goals are. Communication is extremely important. 1:1 is always customized to the individual and can get very specific. Groups are intentionally smaller in size so we can still be very hands on and modify and adjust exercises as needed. We could make minor adjustments, or maybe we scale back significantly (Ie pregnancy 3rd trimester). It all depends on the person in front of you. And honestly, that may change week to week.
9.) How do you stay motivated/disciplined and continue your own fitness journey?
I give myself a lot of grace. I know workouts aren’t going to be perfectly consistent from week to week. That life happens and as long as I get back on the wagon, the wheels will continue to move…sometimes faster, sometimes slower. I’ve also realized I am one that needs accountability. Accountability keeps me consistent.
10.) What advice do you give to those who are just starting their fitness journey?
Be patient. Play the long game. It’s so worth it. When we truly understand fitness as a lifelong investment to your overall health, that it takes time and hard work and many years of continuously showing up…it takes the pressure off, it’s way more enjoyable and that’s when amazing progress will be sustainably made
11.) What activities or hobbies do you enjoy doing outside of training?
Adventuring to new places or revisiting our favorite spots, hiking, reading, experiencing life through our kid’s eyes.
12.) What is your favorite workout or exercise, and why do you love it?
A deadlift. You get the most bang for your buck with this exercise. It’s extremely versatile and works not only the meaty muscles groups, but your entire core system as well.
