Best investment in my physical, mental and emotional well being I've ever made! Whenever aspiring mothers or expecting mothers come to me for advice, I always tell them to check out TLM. There is just nothing like it. My second pregnancy was a lot tougher than my first and I started to have all sorts of issues (back pain, pubic pain) that became unbearable in my second trimester. I was fairly active before this pregnancy but I was not well educated on pre-natal workouts (adjustments, pelvic floor training etc.). One of my friends recommended that I do some pre-natal training and I interviewed several trainers but ultimately came to TLM. I loved that they only focused on pre and post-natal and it was a safe space and a wonderful community. I've worked with many of the trainers at the Noe location and they are all professional, knowledgeable and warm. Within a month of starting TLM, despite getting heavier and more uncomfortable by the day, I was in less pain. Every week I pushed myself to do things I never thought possible and it has helped my recovery so much. I stuck with it for 9 months post-partum and I went from barely able to stand on one foot to now crushing single leg deadlifts and 4x 1 minute planks! It was also a good reminder to carve some time out for myself now that life was more hectic at home. I loved seeing my trainers and getting their advice on my pregnancy journey, workout routines and of course, kids! Everything from potty training my toddler to strategies to get more sleep was a welcome discussion. It was better than therapy and I loved every minute of it. I am so grateful for the support TLM has provided to me and I'm confident it can do the same for many other moms out there. Definitely worth signing up for a (free) assessment to see if it could be a fit for you! read more

The Lotus Method - Front entrance - Trainers Near Me - San Francisco, California

I highly recommend The Lotus Method to anyone pregnant or postpartum! I started going to this gym when I was 15 weeks pregnant and I continue to train with them at 3 months postpartum. Their workouts kept me physically and mentally strong throughout my pregnancy and helped me to feel super confident going into delivery. Prior to pregnancy, I was very active, regularly went to HIIT training classes and wanted to continue to be active but safe throughout my pregnancy. I found the Lotus Method through a referral from a friend. I've had the pleasure of training regularly 1:1 with Sam, Sophia and the owner Caitlin and have had an amazing experience training with all three! They custom tailored my workouts to prepare me for mommyhood and to still challenge me physically so that I was able to build strength even during pregnancy. Ultimately, joining The Lotus Method was the best thing I did for myself throughout this journey to motherhood and I'm so grateful to have this safe and amazing space to take care of myself. read more

Wow - I can't believe I haven't written a review for TLM yet. The TLDR is that The Lotus Method has been the most impactful choice I made for my health, ever. Their trainers are beyond caring and compassionate and competent. I started training with them in person almost 3 years ago, when I was 7 months pregnant, with awful pubic symphysis pain (aka lightning crotch). They helped me manage the pain and survive the last 2 months of pregnancy. After giving birth, they nursed me back to health and strength. I have been working out with them 2/week since them (I switched from in-studio to remote). Results: though I gained almost 50 pounds during my 1st pregnancy, I am back in the best shape of my life. I am stronger than I've ever been. My chronic neck pain improved dramatically. I can lift my very wiggly 2 year old with one arm. Just as important, I've made a great friend in my trainer, and I genuinely look forward to meeting with her, even if it's just on Zoom. read more

I started going to The Lotus Method halfway through my second pregnancy after developing some pretty intense pregnancy related sciatica. As a pretty active person, I was totally at a loss of what activities I could do without severely aggravating my sciatica and started researching prenatal workouts (that weren't yoga - not really my thing). I quickly landed on The Lotus Method and after reading all the stellar reviews, I figured why not give it a shot. And I'm SO glad I did. I love the membership model that forces me to come in at least once per week and stay consistent. The 1:1 sessions are wonderful and I've worked with a number of instructors who do a great job sharing info on clients and ensure my workouts are always tailored for me. The group virtual and in person classes are great too. There's never more than 4 people so you're able to still get 1:1 instruction in a group setting. I've loved it so much I even extended my initial 3 mo membership to continue post partum. And in case you were wondering, my sciatica has improved significantly since working out at TLM! read more

If you are pregnant or post partum, or even past post partum struggling with post partum issues still (like me, 11 months post birth), I highly recommend this specialized gym. They are open as of April 2021 and offer zoom, one on one training, and as of next week, small in person classes! All of the trainers are kind, engaging, knowledgeable and fun to work with. Caitlin the owner is the utmost professional - communicative, understanding, and considerate of your needs. I've trained one on one with Caitlin, Tanae, Bianca and Becka and they have all been wonderful. They know how to challenge you while still keeping your needs/injuries in mind. Worth every penny, and you MAMA deserve it! read more

I simply can't say enough positive things about Lotus Method! The trainers are so knowledgeable about working with pre and postnatal women, the workouts are incredibly helpful, and the overall community of women (both trainers and customers) is such a delight to be a part of! As someone with a previous back injury, I was really nervous about how my body would handle pregnancy. I'm happy to report that I'm pain-free and feeling stronger than ever thanks to my weekly sessions with Leslie! On top of helping me within each session, she's given me the tools to adjust other workouts and classes appropriately so I feel confident knowing how to handle my (new) body, which feels really empowering. I also think that it's an incredible deal when you break it down. Most 1:1 private sessions - especially with someone so highly and specifically trained - would run over $150/hr easily. Also, a small group class that's similarly high quality and specialized would typically cost at least $25/class, if not much more. So for $115/week, you get a 1:1 private session and one small group class, that's pretty great! I hope I don't convince them to raise their prices by writing this, but wanted to address some previous comments/reviews that thought they were too expensive. You shouldn't be comparing this to a typical gym membership. read more

I'm so glad that I signed up for the Lotus Method! I started training with Tenae once a week when I was 7 months pregnant, in addition to going to one group class a week. Throughout my pregnancy I felt really good and stayed very active, but towards the end, I no longer felt comfortable in my regular yoga classes and strength training classes. I needed more guidance and modifications for my changing body. I'm so glad I got matched up with Tenae because she is the best! During our one-on-one sessions she kept me feeling challenged but supported; she was very responsive to my different needs on different days. I also appreciated how she explained the purpose behind movements and how she provided clear cues to help me engage the proper muscles. I think that's one of the best benefits of working with a trainer, that specific guidance around form and muscle engagement. I will also say that the group classes were a good compliment to the one-on-one sessions because you do the same movements at a bit quicker pace. Plus, it's just nice to work out with a bunch of other pregnant women. I gave birth a few weeks ago and am already looking forward to getting back to the Lotus Method after I'm cleared to work out again. I can't recommend it enough! read more

I've been going to the Lotus Method since early in pregnancy well through postpartum. It's been a fantastic experience, and a critical part of my recovery from a brutal delivery that left my pelvic floor in tatters. I was initially skeptical about the format. I was used to training on my own, both running and lifting, so doing weekly personal training PLUS a group class seemed like overkill. But it turned out to be a tremendous investment. My physical state changed so much week to week through pregnancy and the months after that coming up with my own programming would have been impossible, especially considering how exhausted I was. My trainers set up programs for me that addressed my physical needs week to week - I just had to show up and do the work. Additionally, the community support is phenomenal. I've worked considerably with Leslie, who is also a new mom herself and rebuilding her own strength. Having someone to complain to and celebrate with who personally feels the struggle is a truly amazing feature of TLM. read more

During my first pregnancy, I struggled with a back injury, sciatic pain, and a host of other physical issues. I am now in my second pregnancy and The Lotus Method has been helping me successfully prevent the pain I experienced the first time around - I am feeling stronger and definitely plan on sticking with a routine post-baby. Bianca has been amazing in tailoring the exercise to my needs and supporting my regular workouts especially through all COVID-19 restrictions/changes. Thanks to The Lotus Method for pivoting their model, I've been able to workout safely and get great guidance throughout my pregnancy. read more

Oh Lotus Method how I love you. The community of moms and trainers (special shout out to Tenae and Caitlin), the laughter, fun, and support- it has been one of the best parts of my week. Let me just say this: today I successfully started and stopped my pee stream at will multiple times squatting over an airplane toilet in the middle of a turbulent flight while holding my 6 month old baby out in front of me. All I could think was: "this triumphant moment brought to you by TLM". If you're on the fence (or even you aren't), do it. read more

I've trained with TLM since 2018... in the Noe studio with Esterina and now virtually with Brianna (both amazing!). My only regret is not hearing about them before my first pregnancy (got the recommendation from a friend in the early days postpartum with #1). Two large babies and long labors later, I'm feeling stronger than ever before. The trainers are super knowledgable, enthusiastic and supportive. TLM has been such an important part of my pre/postnatal experience! read more

I have to admit, I was hesitant to splurge on a trainer, but look at it as an investment to not break your back after your first 6 months giving birth. The only thing I regret is not enrolling in their prenatal training! Unbelievable trainers and community, one of the best investments I've ever made. This service made me the best mom and wife I could be :) read more

I am coming up on my 1 year anniversary with The Lotus Method and I love being part of their community. I started mid-way through the first trimester of pregnancy and went back once I was cleared for exercise. I have worked with a variety of trainers in the Noe Studio and they are all terrific. The trainers set up strength training circuits tailored to your needs and level of strength. They keep it fun and always check in to make sure you don't experience pain and are being challenged. They also focus on proper form and alignment - which was a main reason I joined - I wanted to work with people who really understand the pregnant and post-partum body, and they really do. Another important part of their training is how to use your breath appropriately during strength-training. And lastly, they have classes and organize community events so mamas can get to know each other. I am currently working with Christi who is highly experienced and knowledgeable about strengthening the post-partum body. I have been dealing with a shoulder injury and she has adapted my training accordingly. I have regained SO much strength since my delivery thanks to her! As a bonus, she is a mom and it has been fun to commiserate about lack of sleep and share cute baby photos and stories. I highly recommend Christi and The Lotus Method to expecting or existing mamas! read more

The Lotus Method has been an integral part of my pregnancy and post-natal journey. My trainer Esterina was so knowledgeable and helped me stay active and feel strong throughout my pregnancy - I even went to a class on my due date! Now that baby is here, TLM has helped me get back to being active and feeling like myself. Checking in at least once a week with an expert about how my body feels made a big difference in both my physical and mental health, and the community of women - both the trainers and the clients - helped me to feel supported, happier, and less isolated in new motherhood. Highly recommend TLM for anyone looking to stay active in pregnancy and meet other people going through the same major life changes. read more

I love the Lotus Method. I started training with Esterina during my second trimester and loved her vibe. She is knowledgable and made working out fun and stress free. I never felt like I was doing something that was unsafe for me or the baby. I would leave my sessions feeling energized. Cannot recommend TLM and Esterina highly enough! read more

I've trained with Caitlin for six years and she is the most knowledgeable trainer I've ever had! Caitlin is an expert and innovator in pre-post natal exercise. I've tried Pilates and Yoga, and for me, The Lotus Method is so much better! Honestly, I don't know how I would've made it through my pregnancy without her. I became pregnant at 46 years old, and I had back and knee issues as well. She created a workout tailored to my specific needs, and always checked in with me to see how I was feeling. I worked out with her three times a week for my entire pregnancy, and I felt strong, healthy and beautiful! I look forward to my workouts at The Lotus Method because everyone, the trainers and other clients, are super supportive and fun to be around. TLM is a bright spot in my weekly routine. Also, Caitlin is very connected with other experts in pre-post natal areas, and was able to put me in touch an acupuncturist and a pelvic floor specialist, which greatly improved my pregnancy experience. Caitlin and The Lotus Method are the BEST!!! read more

I worked out with trainers at Lotus through both of my pregnancies and post partum timeframes, and love the personalization, training expertise, and community that is trademark to their approach. I will miss Leslie, Esterina, and both Jess' at the Noe Studio, and Alicia at SOMA. Caitlin continues to build a best in class team! read more

I came to the Lotus method about 2.5 months postpartum and worked with Jenna for about 4 months! Not only is Jenna extremely knowledgeable and a REALLY smart trainer, but she was also super easy to talk to, gave great mom tips and genuinely listened to my needs and pain points. I had been suffering from a mysterious rib pain since even before pregnancy that my doctor wasn't able to figure out. Jenna clearly identified that I had an imbalance in my gait and posture which was causing my side to tighten up. She modified my workout to start correcting this and this started to reduce the pain- not to mention the relief of the issue being identified in the first place - feeling like I wasn't crazy and having the tools to correct the problem. Along with that, Jenna also helped me tighten up my loose postpartum core and taught me techniques to maneuver my body while carrying my baby. Postpartum training should be a offered to all moms as I feel it is such a vital service!!! I am so happy I found this gym and the women who run it! Cannot recommend enough! read more

I've been a client of the Lotus Method since they opened and have worked with Caitlin for long before. They helped me go into my pregnancy fit, helped me stay fit throughout my pregnancy - my OB even commented on how tight my abs were and then helped me get back to full strength quicker than I thought was possible. I appreciated that she continued to push me during my pregnancy and aside from modifying a few things that aren't safe I continued to have challenging workouts and kept training until the week I delivered. I ended up having a c-section because my son was breech. And once it became clear that he was breech, they took that into account and worked with me to do everything possible to flip him. He didn't budge so I ended up having a c-section and while that wasn't what we'd worked for I felt really supported in the decision. I went strong and recovered very quickly thanks to all of the work that I'd done with the Lotus Method throughout my pregnancy and was cleared early to resume all activity. Though I would have jumped back in full force, they did a good job of easing me back into workouts ensuring that my core strength returned and I didn't do any long-term damage as my body continued to heal and recover. It didn't take long though for me to get back to my pre-pregnancy strength, weight and fitness. I've primarily worked with Caitlin, I've had a great experience working with other trainers as well. While they are all committed to the same thing, they all have unique styles and approaches to working with their clients. read more

Investing in the Lotus Method is one of the best decisions I made during (and after) my pregnancy. There is nothing comparable when it comes to prenatal and postpartment fitness and general well being. The workouts are truly designed around pregnant and postpartum bodies and supporting the physical demands of motherhood. Sarah is a superb 1:1 trainer. She instructs a great workout, and she's just a joy to be around. The group sessions are chance to socialize (or not, if you're not in the mood) and continue working out in a positive and safe but challenging environment. LM offers excellent postpartum referrals (doulas, physical therapists, lactation consultants, etc.). I have limited time and resources to do things for myself, but I happily chose to spend my time and money on the Lotus Method. read more

I had a great experience with the Lotus Method. I had never done personnel training before, but really wanted to feel good about my body throughout my pregnancy and decided to treat myself to something special. And I'm so glad I did -- it was great for my confidence to feel like I knew how to use my body safely, even as it was changing, and to feel like I was strong, not weak and limited, during my pregnancy. After all, I was getting ready for a big, physical event (labor)! In particular, I worked with Esterina for 4+ months during the second and third trimesters of my pregnancy (we moved at the end of my pregnancy, so I wasn't able to continue postpartum). She was wonderful -- with the right level of positive energy for our early morning sessions. read more

Love the Lotus Method! Such a supportive community with really great trainers! I worked with Esterina who is fabulous. She is super knowledgeable and helped me understand what was going on with my body and what exercises would work best for me. She even helped me modify the workouts I was keeping up at my other studio. It was great to be able to stay active at TLM with 1:1 sessions and group classes right up until my last week of pregnancy; I felt more prepared and I think my recovery has been smooth because of it. I always looked forward to my sessions with Esterina, and I will definitely come back to Lotus Method for baby #2! read more

Caitlin and the Lotus Method are fantastic. I found her at the original location in the financial district when she first opened 4 years ago. After doing unchallenging pre-natal yoga classes, I was amazed that I got some actual endorphins going through training with Caitlin. Not only is she kind and fun, but Caitlin knows the pregnant body so well and made me feel comfortable working out all the way up to my due date. Best of all, I felt ready for the challenge that is delivery! read more

This studio along with Jess Hess has changed my life! I've trained with Jess for the past 4 years and I followed her from a previous gym. She makes every work out unique, challenging and fun. The studio is very clean, organized and super baby friendly. read more

Another five-star review from an extremely happy Lotus Method client! I've been training there for the past 6 months and could not recommend it more. My trainer, Jessica Smith, is phenomenal. She's gotten my post-two-kids body back into the best shape I've been in years. I see her three times a week, and they are the most valuable minutes of my week! She's taught me proper breathing and alignment to help with my diastasis recti (post-pregnancy abdominal separation) and she's pushed me and challenged me to get fitter than I ever was before I had kids. The results are incredible and well worth the price tag of each session. Push-ups, planks, TRX, kettlebells -- we tackle all the exercises that are just hard-core enough for me to never try on my own. I'm even working on chin-ups! I definitely recommend the Lotus Method, and Jessica Smith specifically. Whether you are pregnant or many years post-pregnant, the program is personalized and results-driven. I'd give more than five stars if I could! read more

If you are prenatal, post, or trying to conceive and are even thinking about exercising, you really should go to Lotus. My first pregnancy was pretty easy and all of the trainers really challenged me during my circuits. This is not yoga and it is challenging! It's not a bunch of silly pregnant-lady workouts. This is amazing, well-thought out and amazing! My post-partum was pretty challenging at first after a c-section, but I kept going to Lotus and then I got really strong again and back in amazing shape pretty quickly with all of the individualized workouts and fun group classes. Now in my second pregnancy, I am in a lot more pain than I was my first time, and I legit NEED lotus to keep me moving and know exactly how to help me. I'm so happy I've done it through first pregnancy, post, and now second. Pregnancy and post natal would not be the same experience without the amazing trainers and great women I've met during one on one sessions and group classes. You cannot go wrong with ANY of the trainers. Having done a ton of pre and post natal workout classes in the Bay Area, I have never felt more safe and more taken care of than I do at Lotus. The founder, Caitlin, knows SO MUCH about anatomy, how pregnancy affects the body, and how to build the perfect circuit. Some days I go in feeling really strong and she pushes me To do push-ups, pull-ups, deadlifts, squats, and awesome combinations. Other days, I go in with a ton of back pain and barely able to move (like today and why I'm writing this review) and I left my session feeling so much better! When I have stupid pregnancy headaches, they turn the lights off and are so accommodating. Caitlin's knowledge and genuine, positive energy makes it an amazing culture for all the trainers and the love and support is tangible in all of the Lotus studios. From one on ones with my trainer, Caitlin, to amazing group classes with Leslie, to all of the other fantastic trainers (Esterina, Alicia, Jess, Jessica, Rebecca, Claire, Kristy, etc.) I have not one single negative thing to say about Lotus. It is my reprieve, safe space and haven during pregnancy. Seriously. If you are pregnant, sign up now. It doesn't matter where in your pregnancy/post you are. It's worth every penny! read more

Lotus Method has a fantastic approach to pre and postnatal fitness, facilitated by top notch trainers. I have worked with multiple personal trainers over the years, and the trainers at The Lotus Method are some of the best. I started working out at TLM when I was about 12 weeks pregnant. My regime was personalized to my needs and changing body throughout my pregnancy. Thanks to the approach at TLM, my delivery and post-delivery recovery were quick and easy. I have learned so much about my body in the process, and highly recommend all the trainers at TLM! read more

I had a very good experience with TLM as a first time mother. I worked with Leslie Ylinen in my second trimester and Caitlin Ritt (the founder) in my third. Leslie is relentlessly optimistic about how strong (and safe) you can be during your pregnancy--she had her own baby a few months after me and it was amazing to see her apply the TLM methodology herself. She also trains groups really well. Caitlin understands the pregnant body and mind as well as anyone I've ever known. Almost more important, she was also supportive immediately postpartum when I discovered my pelvic organ prolapse and could barely walk. Ultimately TLM is all about connecting you with the community of mamas and the network of caregivers that pregnant and postpartum women could need (e.g. lactation consultants, pelvic floor PTs, massage therapists, and psychologists). If you are unsure about how to stay fit and prepare for the ordeal of childbirth and recovery, these women will help with care, community, and expertise. read more

Another 5 star review for Lotus! I had somewhat fallen off the exercise wagon due to an insane work schedule even before my first trimester started, and during my first trimester, the fatigue, nausea, cravings, and evil humors all contributed to me quickly gaining 10 lbs. I wanted to get back in shape and stay in shape during pregnancy and afterwards. I researched several pregnancy fitness options and personal trainers before biting the bullet and handing over the cash for TLM. It has been 1000% worth the money. I have truly enjoyed every single session and I firmly believed that my training at Lotus helped me with my super-speedy recovery from my C-section. Lotus helped me look and feel good throughout pregnancy and gave me the confidence to continue to lift heavy objects with care, take the stairs, and remain healthy & active throughout :-) Special shout-out to trainers Leslie & Jess Hess who are amazing. Jess in particularly is so patient and kind and truly personalizes each session. She is very observant and attentive to even the littlest details and makes modifications to make the most of each training session. I am so thankful for Lotus for helping me throughout my pregnancy and I'm looking forward to continuing to train with them in the postpartum period! read more

I have been working with Jess at Lotus Method for over a year now- through my pregnancy and now postpartum. She is the best! Working out with her really helped me in my pregnancy- I was able to stay strong and I believe that working out with her support/expertise definitely made a difference in my delivery. She keeps it challenging but is very aware of where I am at and how my body is feeling. I would definitely recommend her or any of the great trainers at Lotus Method!! read more