The PPA coaching certification is a masterclass in progressing clients from rehab to higher levels of exercise. The course is biased toward strength and conditioning or CrossFit-style exercise, but the principles apply to runners, yogis and other modalities.
In creating the course, Brianna aimed to teach critical thinking about pregnancy and postpartum fitness. He teaches principles that once you learn, you can apply to any athlete that may present you. Because of this, he spends a lot of time teaching the “why” behind all the recommendations and best practices (I love it!).
This course is really suitable for anyone coaching pregnant or postpartum athletes from rehab to higher levels of sport (higher intensity, higher impact, higher demand). However, the material is just as applicable to coaching lower level athletes as it is to coaching higher level athletes.
Who created it?
Brianna Battles, a strength and conditioning coach with extensive experience coaching pregnant and postpartum athletes, first developed the PPA curriculum in 2017.
He uses many guest posts to compliment his own areas of expertise. As of 2023, the course is currently in its third revision.
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered online, primarily through video lectures. The course is self-study but there is a dedicated Facebook group available for support.
How long do you have access to the materials?
Lifetime access.
How is the professional network?
P&PA’s professional network is next level.
The Facebook group is very active and collaborative. Through live events, there are opportunities to network in person. The group is large enough to offer solid opportunities but not so large that it feels impersonal.
P&PA offers a coaches map where you can list your business once you’ve completed certification. I have received many referrals from this map over the years.
How long is the credential?
Forever
What I liked:
I liked the emphasis in this course on developing critical thinking around working with the pregnant and postpartum population. It really prepared me to support clients from different backgrounds and athletic goals.
The Facebook community has been a valuable asset in my teaching practice and has become the most important of networks. Brianna is present in her community and you can feel that she has a vested interest in the success of her coaches.
I also really appreciate that Brianna is in the trenches coaching clients. There is a big emphasis on HOW to practice individual movements and exercises that are very practical. I took this course as a newer coach and found the movement education very helpful and unique in this course.
