Our story
About Startstrong Fitness CIC
A community interest company built on one belief: no parent should navigate the journey of parenthood alone.
Emma · Founder & Director
Meet Emma
I started Startstrong Fitness CIC after going through my own difficult experience of becoming a mother. I know how isolating those early months can feel, and how little real support many parents receive.
That's why I created it — to build the kind of space I wished had existed for me. Somewhere parents could come as they are, bring their babies, move gently and feel understood rather than judged. I've seen how much difference the right environment and community can make, both physically and emotionally.
I'm a Level 3 Personal Trainer and Level 5 Nutritionist specialising in pre and postnatal fitness — and a mum to two children under 2. I bring both my professional training and my own lived experience into every class, creating sessions that are warm and adaptable.
Our mission
We use exercise as a bridge — to better physical health, meaningful connection and the emotional support that so many new parents are missing. Everything we do is built around safety, belonging and meeting you where you are.
“No parent should navigate the journey of parenthood alone.”
Who it's for
- Pregnant women and new parents — mums and dads welcome
- All fitness levels, including those returning after birth or caesarean recovery
- Parents who feel isolated, low in confidence or simply in need of company
- Families who want to exercise without arranging separate childcare — babies come too
What we stand for
Community first
Exercise is the bridge — the real work is connection, conversation and making sure no parent feels alone.
Accessible to all
Classes are free and grant-funded. Financial barriers should never stop someone from taking part.
Specialist-led care
Every session is led by coaches trained in pre and postnatal fitness, with an understanding of mental wellbeing and the reality of early parenthood.
Inclusive by design
Non-judgmental, adaptable and welcoming. Modifications are built in — never an afterthought.
The team
Startstrong is delivered by specialist coaches — not a one-person operation. Each brings professional training, lived understanding of parenthood and a shared commitment to making every session feel safe and supportive.
Shannon
Pre- & postnatal coach · Colchester & Ipswich
Shannon trained in dance and musical theatre before moving into fitness in London and the US. Now a Level 3 pre- and postnatal coach, she leads our Colchester and Ipswich classes with energy, encouragement and a focus on helping parents feel capable in their own bodies again.
Sian
Pre- & postnatal coach · Stowmarket
Sian is a Level 3 personal trainer with Metafit and pre- and postnatal qualifications. She leads our Tuesday Mum & Baby class at Evolution Gym in Stowmarket, creating a fun, supportive space where mums feel seen — and never judged for where they are starting from.
Gemma
Virtual assistant · Support team
Gemma has been a virtual assistant for 3 years, and supporting Startstrong Fitness CIC for 9 months now. She is really passionate about supporting new families after previously running her own business in the sector. She loves working with Emma, Shannon and Sian and is grateful to be part of the exciting future for Startstrong Fitness CIC.
What we offer
Free classes across Ipswich, Colchester and Stowmarket — and a community that keeps growing.
Free parent & baby classes
Circuit-based sessions across Ipswich, Colchester and Stowmarket. Your baby stays with you — mats, toys and equipment provided.
Pregnancy and postnatal fitness
Adapted exercise for pregnancy, recovery after birth and the stages in between. Gentle progressions, never pressure to perform.
A community that gets it
Parents describe our classes as a place to get out of the house, meet others going through the same stage and feel genuinely welcomed.
Our reach so far
1,450+
Families supported since 2023
3
Towns across Suffolk & Essex
Free
Grant-funded — no cost to attend
- Registered Community Interest Company (CIC no. 15060988)
- Grant, council and National Lottery funded
- Serving Suffolk and Essex — Ipswich, Colchester and Stowmarket
Come and see for yourself
Free classes running across Ipswich, Colchester and Stowmarket. Everyone is welcome.