Help! Having a Baby in 8 Weeks... Need to Cut Back on ...

M

mbschneider

Cathlete
Hello! I am 32 weeks pregnant, expecting my first baby. Pre-pregnancy weight was 103 lbs (I am just 5' tall). I have gained @ 20 pounds so far and think I will gain 5-10 more, which seems to be normal. I have been extremely committed to my exercise program for 10-12 years - arguably too much so! I would work out 6-7 days per week, doing a mix of intense cardio and weight training. I have continued to exercise daily throughout my pregnancy, but at a lower intensity. I know that when the baby arrives I will not have the luxury of going to the gym every day. I am hoping to work out 4 days per week initially - that alone would be an accomplishment. In fact, I just ordered Drill Max - my first Cathe video - in hopes that I can still get an awesome workout in at home, while the baby is napping. I am super scared of what the reduced exercise schedule will do to my body, my fitness level and to my weight. However, I know that I can no longer be a slave to the gym during a time when the baby must be my # 1 priority. Has anyone met this dilemna and, if so, can you tell me how you fared with a similar, reduced program? Thanks so much for your thoughts!
Mary Beth
 
RE: Help! Having a Baby in 8 Weeks... Need to Cut Back...

Hi Mary Beth,

It's been years since I've had a baby in the house, but when I had a toddler and two babies at the same time, boy, that seemed a workout in itself.

Just be patient and begin slowly after the birth of your baby. Your body, muscles have "memory" since you have been a faithful exerciser and the come back will not be nearly as difficult as you think. But you must remember to care for yourself after the birth and not expect too much...you'll set yourself up for frustration.

I have worked out at home only for years and with Cathe for 2-1/2 years. Cathe can get you and keep you in shape at home, no question. And we can get results with less exercise than we think. Clean eating and quality workouts are more important than quantity. Recently I have found that even at my old age I am seeing just as good results having reduced my insane drive to workout everyday as hard as I can. I've discovered it's ok to listen on those days my body says "whoa girl, slow down today" and then pick up the intensity another day. Or if life gets in the way and prevents a scheduled workout, I've learned not to stress about it. Everything balances out if you have dedication, not insanity, when it comes to exercise.

I don't think any of what I typed makes sense, but congratulations on your first child. Best wishes and take care.
 
RE: Help! Having a Baby in 8 Weeks... Need to Cut Back...

Congratulations to you and your family Mary Beth. I'm another tiny person (4'11") who can't carry much weight. In the long, long time ago past when I had my baby, much to my delight the weight came off relatively quickly. Yes, I had belly blubber for awhile but that comes off too.

If it's OK with your Dr., you can probably start off right away with Leslie Sansone's Walk Fit series. At least you would feel like you were doing something physical before charging back in to the full workout schedule.

Just my .02

:)
 
Hi Mary Beth,

Congratulations on your pregnancy. Children are such a blessing and I love my htree boys dearly.
I know you will be anxious to get back in shape after your baby is born but you HAVE to take it easy for at least 4-5 weeks. When your uterus expands it moves all of your organs out of the way so it can fit. After you have your baby your organs are kind of floating around in there without much support. If you start exercise too soon you could end up with a prolapsed bladder or rectum and from experience I will tell you it is not fun. The worst part is that it is not something you can fix without surgery and even then it will only be about 75% . I don't know why doctors neglect to tell you this from the beginning but they let you know when it's too late. Talk to your doctor and get her/his opinion and then enjoy the quiet down time you'll have with your baby. You'll have the rest of your life to work on your figure:)

Nicole

Those who do not find time for exercise will have to find time for illness.
-Earl of Derby-

http://www.picturetrail.com/gallery/view?uid=7738930
 
Wow--my experience with my first child was that I had a heck, heck, HECK of a lot of other concerns crowding my plate. I had to learn how to care for the baby. I mean, I'm sure everyone's already told you, but EVERYTHING changes--it's major. You'll have a HUGE lifestyle adjustment in store. Your world may feel like it's upside down.

This is what the first year is all about! You WILL recognize yourself again (physically and personally) within that first year. You WILL come back. But don't hold yourself to high expectations at the beginning. You have no idea what the rhythm of your life will be after your babe is born. It'll probably take several months to start adapting. Expect that, and embrace it.

Good luck!

And one more thought: if breastfeeding doesn't work for you, don't try to force it. Nothing wrong with formula. Don't add too much pressure to yourself when you're vulnerable.

Gisela
 
Hi Mary Beth,

Have you found the Fit Moms and Pregnancy part of these forums yet? There's a ton of good information and support there, to help with your concerns.

I wish you all the best in the birth of your baby!! It's an exciting time.

Take care,
Sandra
 
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