This is my body. This is my body unedited, unfiltered and what it looks like after having two kids.
First off, can I just tell you how horrifying it is to post unedited photos of yourself on the internet in your almost-skivvies? But, it is necessary since I want to share my fitness journey and I figure sharing it here on the blog will keep me accountable and help me to stay on track.
I have a lot of feelings about the topic of what it means to be a "fit mom." You see, for the longest time I felt like I was breaking the rules of feminism by writing down what I was eating, counting calories and working out in the pursuit of being thin. I wrote a post about body image as a mother and have mentioned that mindset numerous times. And I guess after preaching about loving yourself no matter how you look, I suppose I cornered myself into feeling guilty about wanting to get so ripped I get a four-pack.
However, after a lot of internal conflicting dialogue, I have come to the conclusion that it's OKAY if I am a fit mom who eats healthy! In fact, I am throwing my hands in the air and thinking Why didn't I do this sooner and more consistently?!
I asked for fitness motivation tips on Instagram (@alongabbeyroad) a couple of days ago, and Lucy pointed out to me that her kids are her motivation for staying fit. It hit me like a ton of bricks! Of course I should be leading a healthy and active lifestyle as an example to them. I have always admired those families who do team marathons but always thought to myself Oh, that will never be me. But that is ridiculous! It CAN be me with Matt, Luke and Wes. (Now, whether or not that actually happens is a different story, but I like the idea of being open to it and realizing it is a legitimate possibility.) Also, I don't want my boys setting up crap eating habits and developing a sugar addiction like I have. (Oh yes, my friends, the sugar addiction is real. I've had splitting headaches and mood swings all week!) My family has a history of high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes, so it is extremely important I take the utmost care of my body and teach Luke and Wes those same guidelines.
So, here I am in my sports bra and shorts (and pantylines ... didn't really think that one through, woops!) on the internet, and I will be for the next 12 weeks. I have decided to do Kayla Itsine's Bikini Body Guide. I am sure you have heard of it because it the latest exercise fad. I am usually not into fitness trends BUT! Have you seen the before and after photos of the women who are participating in the challenge? MIND. BLOWING. There is no wonder why all the ladies are jumping on this bandwagon. And you guys, I am going to be one of those incredible transformations! I am determined!!
I started it on Monday, so this is my first week. I cross my heart, hope I don't die (from all those circuits) it is amazing. As a mom, it works with my schedule since I can do it at home during naptime. I love its accessibility and I love how she literally tells you what to do every single day. I need that. I am horrible at coming up with my own workouts and even worse at getting out of the house to attend a class or spend an hour at the gym. This is the fitness jackpot for me. I am sore, but already feeling sturdier and more solid on day four.
She also offers a day by day food guide, but I am just using her servings guide and making my own meal plans. I am thinking about sharing my food guides each week I post a progress photo, in case you need some inspiration! I will also be sharing some of my meals and workout photos on Instagram, so be sure to follow along here.
Overall, I am excited and feeling strong and motivated. Just because I want to be lean and fit doesn't mean I love myself any less than when I am squishier and curvy. I want to reach my highest potential for an active and healthy lifestyle. I know it will help me overcome my anxiety and depression and help me to be the best version of myself.
I can be a fit mom. I will be a fit mom.
