Rhonda’s Story: Exercising Without Leaking

Nature is Rhonda’s playground. She and her husband love camping, hiking, and especially biking. She often stops to watch butterflies, which she sees as a gentle reminder that transformation is possible.

Rhonda’s own transformation didn’t begin on a trail, but with a personal health struggle. For years, she dealt with urinary incontinence. Whether she was sneezing, coughing, laughing, or exercising, the result was often leakage and discomfort. “It really was the most annoying during exercise. I couldn't do sit-ups without being in a puddle,” she says. Her symptoms started shortly after having a baby and just got worse over time. When she finally saw a urologist, she was told it was normal for her age. “They basically said, ‘Live with it, and if it gets worse, we’ll consider surgery,’” she recalls. Rhonda left that appointment discouraged, thinking, Is this really just part of aging?

A 'Why Not?' Decision

Then she received a postcard in the mail introducing Hinge Health’s women’s pelvic health program. “I thought, wow, what is this about? I've been dealing with incontinence for over ten years. Why not give it a try?” she says.

Rhonda began doing short exercise sessions a few times a week. She learned about diaphragmatic breathing, and how something so simple could have a powerful effect on pelvic floor health. Within a few months, she realized she could sneeze without worrying. It felt like a breakthrough. “This could keep me from needing surgery,” she thought.

Another surprise: the app’s library of articles about pelvic health. “The information is incredible. I’ve learned so much about myself and how pelvic floor exercises complement and support my whole body,” she says.

The Power of Personal Connection

Personal support from Rhonda’s coach was a big part of her success. “I’ve been really impressed,” Rhonda says. “My coach checks in with me every Monday to see if there’s anything I need. She’s not only concerned with my pelvic health, she’s also concerned about me as a person.”

Rhonda’s coach even sent her a handwritten note celebrating her progress. “When does that happen in healthcare? That would be never,” she says.

No Change of Clothes Needed

Today, Rhonda can confidently do Pilates, hike, and go on long bike rides without needing to plan for the nearest bathroom. She’s learned techniques — like long-hold Kegel exercises — that help her prevent leaks. She no longer worries about carrying extra clothes. More importantly, she’s reclaimed peace of mind. “It just gives me peace and confidence that I don't have to be worried about being in a puddle anymore,” she says.

The transformation has been life-changing. “I’m very intentional about my well-being. The exercises I do now, like biking and hiking, wouldn’t be possible otherwise. I’d have to worry about my health declining and feeling embarrassed at work, especially if I sneezed.”

Quick Daily Sessions

Looking back, she’s shocked at how much her quality of life has improved with just 10 to 15 minutes of daily commitment and the support of a caring coach. “This has been an excellent way to improve my health and well-being without having to consider expensive and invasive procedures,” she says. 

“Hinge Health didn’t just help me physically — it gave me back my confidence," she says. “Without it, I would just be doing less. And that’s not who I am,” she says. “I want to live life to the fullest.”