POST BABY FITNESS Q&A

1. How quickly did you start working out post partum?

Expecting to have a natural delivery, having a c-section was a bit of a shock with how slow I estimated the first two weeks getting back would be. I started a walk program at 3 weeks, but everyone’s body is different so go at your own pace! I personally felt like my body was ready. 

2. What does your fitness routine look like each week?

The last two weeks, I literally haven’t worked out because of travel. Typically, I work out 4 days a week — a mix of cardio and hiit workouts. I’ve also incorporated P.volve because it’s low-intensity, high impact. The older I get, cardio isn’t enough so I’ve had to add in weights and P.volve for toning.

3. How many times a week do you work out?

I try to work out 4 times a week. 

4. How do you schedule your work outs with a baby?

I try to work out in the early morning. I am naturally an early riser, but now I have found that if I don’t do it first thing, it doesn’t get done. Mad & I have a small home gym that we setup in garage because getting to the gym isn’t always feasible. We are lucky to have a nanny M-F so during the weekdays, I’m able to set aside that time to work-out. On the weekends though, Mad and I will switch off so we can each have that time.

5. How has your morning routine changed since having Navy?

I almost always get up at 5a to start my day ahead of hers. Navy is up and feeding by 7am. We try to make it a point to have family time until about 8:30 before Mad and I start our work-days.

6. Do you ever have days that you don’t feel motivated to work-out?

Absolutely. When Navy decides to party all night ;). I have a really hard time getting up. We’re going through four-month sleep regression — we’ve gone from Navy sleeping through the night to her getting up 4-5 times a night. I’ve been learning to have a lot of grace for myself during this time. As a new mom, I need to be gentle on myself.

7. How do you incorporate working out with travel?

I love to go for runs in the city that I’m in, but I try to keep it consistent with my schedule at home: early mornings…cardio mixed with some resistance. P.volve is also great because it’s easy to travel with. I’ve never been one for class pass because I don’t have time to go to actual classes. When I travel my schedule is packed because I want to get as much done in as limited time as possible. I generally just go to the home gym.

8. What does your diet look like?

I do a lot of snacks and small meals. I’m 90% vegetarian so I get most of my protein through dairy. For breakfast, I almost always have a banana and peanut butter.

9. Are there any foods you try to stay away from?

I try to stay away from highly processed foods and stuff that’s high in sugar. I go to the grocery store around 3 times a week because we try and buy perishable foods. TIP: shop the outer aisles of the grocery store to stay away from processed foods!

10. How do you fight sugar cravings?

Sugar cravings are HARD! But I find that if I’m eating throughout the day, it’s easier to manage them. Small meals throughout the day is key for me! (although I do have a weak spot for candy and indulge myself every once and a while ;)).

11. Do you breastfeed? And how have you noticed it affect your weight?

Yes – I do breastfeed and think that breastfeeding has actually helped me with post-baby weight loss. Every woman’s body is different, but for me I feel like it takes a ton of energy (it’s almost a work-out in itself!). Plus we can all agree that it’s a full-time job ;). Note that all your nutrients go to your baby, so if you’re low on nutrients it’s the momma who takes the hit! SO important to stay on top of your prenatals. Also, drink loads of water and overall having a healthy diet. 

12. Were you active before you had Navy, and do you think it made a difference in your recovery?

Absolutely – I was active prior to my pregnancy and stayed active until about 7 1/2 months. Even still I was walking every day, and I definitely think that played a role in faster recovery.

13. Do you have stretch marks and what have you done to make them less noticeable?

I don’t, but I used Earth Mama Belly Butter while pregnant on my belly. I would apply it every day and night.

14. How long did it take for you to get your body back?

It’s still not back. Nothing is the same, but I suppose it’s not supposed to be :). At around 3 weeks though, I noticed my body start to bounce back and I could fit into pre-baby clothes again. It really depends on YOUR body though, and the time it takes to heal. It’s so different for everyone. 

15. How long did it take until you felt like yourself again after becoming a mom?

I felt me again after the eight-week mark, but there are still a few things that feel a little out of body. I know that will come in time :).