Does This Baby Make Me Look Fat? Reflections on Early Pregnancy and Body Image
Once again, we have the honor of featuring guest blogger Hollie Reina, a full time stay-at-home mom of two boys who is pregnant with her third. She is also a professional freelance writer for www.trails.com and www.glendora.patch.com. Hollie is a two-time marathoner, a minimalist running fanatic and a former hiking and mountain biking guide in southern Utah. She is dedicated to sharing her true thoughts and stories as she navigates this pregnancy while trying to stay fit both mentally and physically.
I am 18 weeks and have now officially entered the “fat pants” phase of my pregnancy.
You the know the phase I am talking about, it is one step above the “top button phase” (Yes I am guilty of wearing my regular pants witht the top button undone) and one step below the “stretchy pants everyday phase.”
If I am being honest, the narcissist in me has always balked at this phase, but this pregnancy it has been particularly difficult.
It has taken me a very long time to reconcile what my body used to be compared to what it has become in four short months.
To shed a little more light on my feelings this is a little bit about my body and workout regimen pre-pregnancy:
Height – 5’5″
Weight- 129 lbs
Size- 2-4 depending on the store
Run 4 days a week
Mtn. bike 1-2 days a week
200 sit-ups plus other core exercises daily
Goal Races
1 fall marathon
1 spring 70.3
My four month pregnant body looks nothing like that nor does my workout regimen and it often takes its toll on my spirits. Sometimes, ok a lot of times, I see only a really really long pregnancy and recovery period with no sight of the former or an even better me awaiting. I often ask how my body, that used to be able to accomplish so much, could betray me like this?
But then I remember what a miracle pregnancy and birth is and how incredibly capable women’s bodies are. Before I was very fit, now I am very strong.
I am strong because I have the ability to carry another life within me, to nourish it, help it to grow and bring it into this world. I am strong because even though I am not training for a marathon I can still hit the trails or the pavement and enjoy a good hike or run. I am strong because I can take care of two children, a husband, a house and still find time to work as a freelance writer and be active in my church. I am strong because I refuse to let the “fat pants phase” beat me.
You are strong too! Join me ladies and wear your “fat pants” with pride!
You can follow Hollie on Twitter @hikingholsford.
Tell us, ladies, how does early pregnancy make you feel?
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Also in The Motherhood- The Blog
How To: Getting Nutrition During Pregnancy: The Alphas and Omegas
Do you ever worry that you’re not getting enough nutrients from real food during pregnancy? Are you familiar with the Alphas and Omegas of pregnancy? Read the “nutrition during pregnancy” basics as it relates to alphas and omegas from fit mom and wellness expert, Kasey Shuler.
Alphas and Omegas. What are they and what do you need to know about how they impact nutrition during pregnancy?..
Put on Your Maternity Workout Clothes and Enjoy a Fit Pregnancy
Having trouble finding the motivation to get off of the sofa and to the gym? You’re not alone: many mamas-to-be struggle with decreased energy levels, increased aches and pains, and other deterrents which can interfere with staying active. However, fitness is an important part of enjoying a healthy pregnancy. Here are some things you can do to stay motivated...
Did you know? : 5 Fabulous Reasons to Give Maternity Yoga a Go
Maternity yoga, or yoga done during the course of your pregnancy, is a safe way to exercise and can actually help prepare the body for childbirth. If you’re looking for a way to stay fit or to increase your fitness level safely during pregnancy, read on for some great reasons to give maternity yoga a try...
For Two Fitness
Author