How exercise can optimize fertility and pregnancy prep

In today’s episode, I sit down with OB-GYN Dr. Hannah Ryles to explore how exercise and movement can powerfully boost fertility for both men and women. We dive into tailored exercise guidelines for preconception, spotlighting the differences for healthy weight versus those managing metabolic or inflammatory conditions, and unpack the benefits of cycle-syncing workouts. Dr. Ryles also shares insights on how men can support their fertility through movement, while highlighting what to avoid. Above all, we discuss how exercise, mindfulness, and stress management can transform reproductive health into a nurturing, empowering journey, even during IVF.

Episode Highlights:

• Discover how Dr. Hannah Ryles, a University of Chicago OB-GYN and advisor for ExpectFit, is redefining what movement means for women in every stage of their reproductive journey.
• Learn how her early years in Japan shaped her unique perspective on exercise and why her medical training revealed striking differences in how active women experience pregnancy, labor, and recovery.
• Unpacking the myth that exercise has to mean “hard workouts” while also exploring how joyful, everyday movement can transform not just fitness, but fertility.
• Dr. Ryles shares her expert take on how to move intentionally during preconception, what activity levels best support women with conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, and how tuning into your body (and cycle) can guide your energy and intensity.
• You’ll also hear how movement can calm inflammation, support hormonal balance, and even play a role in IVF success, plus what men need to know about exercise and fertility (and what to avoid).
• Finally, a powerful client story reminds us that fertility thrives on balance
• Dr. Ryles leaves listeners with a vital message about movement and fertility

If you’re LOVING this podcast, please follow and leave a rating and review below. PLUS FOLLOW MY INSTAGRAM PAGE HERE FOR BITE SIZED TTC TIPS!

Guest Info:

Hannah Ryles is an ObGyn practicing at the University of Chicago. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College and then attended University of Pennsylvania for Medical School and Residency. She completed a fellowship in gynecologic surgery from University of Chicago. She is an Expect advisor and mom of 2 little ones. She firmly believes in the power of exercise for transforming your pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and postpartum journey and is passionate about sharing the benefits of exercise with others!

Related Episode Links:

• Instagram: expectfit
• Website: www.expect.fit
• Twitter: htryles
• Expect Fit app exclusive deal: 20% off monthly and annual memberships 

Need Nora’s Support To Get Pregnant?

• Click here for a collection of Nora’s best self paced programs to get & stay pregnant
• Apply for Private Fertility Coaching with Nora here

Grab Your FREE Resources:

• Just starting your TTC journey? Download my Eat To Get Pregnant Guide 
• Having trouble getting and staying pregnant? Download my Top 3 Things To Do When You’re Not Getting Pregnant
• Wondering what supplements to take to help you conceive? Download my Fertility Foundations Supplement Guide

Please Note: The contents of this podcast are for educational and informational purposes only. The information is not to be interpreted as, or mistaken for, clinical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.