What is a Fit Pregnancy? My Changing Standards...

Clearly I'm pregnant.  And as I grow bigger, I wonder more and more what has happened to my lifestyle and to this once health and fitness filled blog of mine.  Where are all the "fit pregnancy" posts I thought I'd be sharing??  How have I not made it to the gym in months?  Have I really become THAT pregnant girl who throws all healthy attempts out the window at the mere mention of the word "mom"?  



I haven't done it on purpose. In fact, my dreams of a MILF worthy post baby body are still alive and thriving. The thing is, well two things actually.... I realized that there are in fact actual humans inside of me that are also impacted by every move that I make and that my expectations of my pregnant capabilities were somewhat over aggressive.  I've spent years watching my pregnant friends post pictures of themselves in the gym, running races, carting their uber healthy veggies around all day... and I don't even want to think about Sarah Stage.  Do you follow her?  Do yourself a favor and don't.  Here are her vomit worthy photos at 9 months pregnant... I mean really??!  Lucky bi*ch.   




So that brings me to my dilemma.  Am I still working out?  Heck yes!  I'm going to work every day, walking to the copier and pushing my own computer cart.  I'm running the vacuum, doing dishes, and bringing the laundry back and forth from the laundry room.  I'm planting flowers in the garden and running errands on weekends.  Trust me, it's a workout.  And while I wish I could say I was stopping by the gym for a quick lift afterwards, it turns out I am usually aching, swollen, and to the point of tears by the end of basic everyday living.  It can be frustrating, but it is what it is.  I have to accept that everyone is different and everyone responds differently to pregnancy.  Apparently the 30 pounds I've already put on (don't worry, doctors are encouraging me to gain 40!) is enough a lift to last me all day.  No extra activity needed.  

Still, a few times I've tried.  I know exercise during pregnancy is healthy.  I know it can be beneficial to both me and the babes. I go to the gym, I grab my weights, I start a lighter version of what used to be my typical go-to routine.  Suddenly my heart starts beating faster and faster and I'm gasping for breath in a way I had never done before.  Do I push?  Do I stop?  I weigh my options...  loosing some endurance and muscle tone and as a result of this pregnancy would stink.  I mean, I know getting back into shape will be hard, and stopping now will only make it harder.  I'll be creating a greater challenge to overcome down the road.  Then I remember the many blogs I've read about twin moms going into labor at 28, 29, 30 weeks... I remember reading that exercise can help to induce labor... and my decision is clear.  While I know I will have a lot of work ahead of me when the twins are born, it will be my work to do, my challenge to overcome.  If I continue to push exercise and God forbid go into early labor, it's the twins that would be doing the work and their battle to overcome.  

My point is, listen to your body.  Put the babies first.  Realize that everyone is different and just because your friend can workout successfully during pregnancy doesn't mean that everyone can handle the same intensity.  I accept that fact that I may not be the 30s super woman warrior I once thought I would be.  And that's perfectly alright.  

Speaking of warriors, I do have one last thing to share before I close this out, and trust me it's pretty freaking cool.  



My friend's husband is currently out in San Pedro, California competing on American Ninja Warrior!  Yes, like the real NBC show!  He was chosen for the first ever all military competition and was chosen from a pool of over 5,000 applicants!  But even more impressive, I happen to know that he is a great dad in a wonderful, hard working, middle class family (she's a teacher too!)  and that they are so unbelievably deserving of all the love and support they can get.  If you want to check him out and keep up with the journey, you can join the group on Facebook here.  Air dates will come out later which I will surely share when available!  

In the meantime, go enter the giveaway for $140 Paypal cash!  Who can't use some extra $$ right??!




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3 comments

  1. I think you are smart in listening to your body. You do have two little babies in there to watch out for, so I think it's smart to do what is safest and best for all three of you!

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  2. Ugh Sarah Stage... I came across her Instagram and my jaw dropped. I've never seen a full term pregnant woman look like that!

    You are absolutely right... I think you need to listen to your body and do what's best for the 2 little girls who are depending on you :)

    Justine @ Charm City Ciemny's
    www.lifeasabaltimoregirl.blogspot.com

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  3. Listen, I know it isn't much, coming from a reader of your blog - just a stranger

    BUT I AM SO PROUD OF YOU - for making the decisions you are making.
    Some people refuse to sacrifice their fitness standards regardless of injury or pregnancy or what have you.

    You are so aware of who you are and who is inside of you. It is a great thing to read!

    And I am sure, after those babies come - you will figure it out, and get back to looking like a freaking model.

    :)

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