03/01/2026
Watching an abdomen move is not a diastasis recti assessment.‼️
A true DRA assessment looks at tissue function, load tolerance, symptoms, and pelvic floor health - and sits within pelvic health physiotherapy.
Postnatal bodies deserve more than reassurance without evaluation.
I love seeing more Pilates instructors working with the ante- and postnatal population - movement is powerful and needed.
✅ Where are instructor/trainers definitely within scope?
- observing presence of abdominal separation
- Say things like “I notice doming/coning during this movement” and modify appropriately
- “I recommend seeing a pelvic health physio for an assessment to make sure we’re moving forwards safely”
But seeing DRAs being offered outside of clinical scope as part of Pilates or fitness course is deeply, deeply concerning. 🤦🏻♀️
As an experienced Pilates instructor and a Chartered Physiotherapist, even while running a studio and completing extensive training and mentorship in pelvic health, I have referred all diastasis recti assessments (and beyond) to a pelvic health physio until I was appropriately qualified.
That’s what staying in scope looks like.
This isn’t about gatekeeping.
It’s about scope, safety, maintaining standards in postnatal care and ensuring women are informed.
I work collaboratively with fitness professionals on a regular basis and value two-way referral.
When everyone stays in scope, women get safer care, better outcomes, and real confidence in their bodies.
