Motherhood was an experience I embraced with love, excitement, and wonder. I absolutely loved it. There are certain things we read about—during, even before, and after—that end up making us feel less “hot” than we’d initially imagined.
We know it takes nine months to carry a baby. So it usually takes nine months to lose the pregnancy weight. Without living under the illusion or craving the “perfect body,” we put completely unnecessary pressure on ourselves by looking in the mirror every morning.
Yes, I quickly got back to my pre-pregnancy weight, but the fact remains that I’m human. I experience intense emotions and I tend to love raiding the pantry, which means that every time someone brings up my weight, I say it’s my baby fat that just won’t leave me… which is totally false!
Without getting into the details of my fragile mental health, let’s just say that I thought—like so many people on this planet—it was time to take myself by the hand and give myself a push to jump into the world of fitness. Go! Go! Go! Chubby Mama, get your butt moving and lose that fat!
Let’s be honest, my start wasn’t exactly stellar. No money and no daycare for babies back then meant a mom who was pretty busy trying to carve out an hour to work out at home. I was feeling my way through it, but—thank goodness—I have plenty of contacts in the fitness world, so I’ve got more tips than I need.
Toutoune Mama isn’t out of the woods yet!
Between housework, the babies, and all the unexpected twists life throws at you just when you’re finally ready to start, there are times when you tell yourself that being healthy—and that little bit of extra belly fat—is clearly not for you. But don’t get discouraged, Toutoune Mama—draw on every last bit of courage you have left and slip into your yoga pants to dance the Lambada Country Pop Soul in your living room.
For all of you who are feeling hopeless, one step at a time—we’ll get there. Slowly, surely, joyfully, and above all, without unnecessary pressure! So have fun! Your babies love you and think you’re beautiful, flabby or not. Enjoy your precious time with them—that little flab can wait until the game is over.