How to respond
Client modification response chain
Follow this chain every time a client texts a pain, pressure, or limitation. Keeps every response consistent no matter who picks it up.
Starting point
Client reports a pain, pressure, or limitation
This is the trigger. Everything below flows from this message.
Safety check first
Is this a red flag symptom?
Before anything else — check for red flags. If any of these are present, refer to their midwife or GP immediately and do not give exercise modifications.
Chest pain · heavy or unusual bleeding · severe headache · sudden vision changes · baby not moving · sharp chest or leg pain · loss of consciousness · difficulty breathing at rest
Decision point
Have they said if it's constant or only during certain exercises?
This is the key question. If it's already clear from their message — skip ahead. If not, ask it before giving modifications.
Not clear from their message
Ask first
"Is this happening all the time, or only during certain exercises?"
Already clear
Move to step 4
They've given you enough to work with. No need to ask.
Scope the modification
Constant or exercise-specific?
This determines how broad the modification needs to be.
Only during certain exercises
Modify those exercises only
Swap or adapt the specific movements that trigger symptoms. Continue the rest of the session as normal.
Constant / all the time
Reduce overall load + activity
Broader modifications needed. May need to reduce session intensity, consider a rest day, or modify across the whole class.
Write the response
Use the standard response format
Every modification response should cover these four things, in order:
1. Validate — acknowledge what they've shared
2. What to avoid — the specific movements or patterns to skip
3. What to do instead — the swaps or modifications
4. When to re-check — when to come back if it doesn't improve
Always include
Add the safety net statement
Every modification text ends with this — no exceptions.
"If this gets worse or you're unsure at any point, please contact your midwife or GP."
After sending
Schedule a follow-up check
Note to check back after their next session or within 48–72 hours to see how they got on.
Admin
Log it in client notes
Record: symptom reported · modifications given · date · follow-up outcome. This keeps the whole team informed and builds a picture over time.
Example response
"Thanks for letting me know — really glad you flagged this. For [symptom] at [stage], I'd avoid [specific exercises or patterns] for now. Instead, try [modifications] — these should feel much more manageable. If things don't improve after your next session, or if it gets worse at any point, please reach out to your midwife or GP. I'll check in with you after class."
Need the specific modifications?
Use the modification guide to look up exactly what to swap by symptom and format.
Modification guide
Symptom modifications by format
Select a symptom the client has reported, then select their class format for specific swaps. No format selected gives an overview across all formats.
Symptom / pain reported
Class format
Select a symptom above to get started.