by Moorea Boardman, Personal Trainer/Owner, YellowLizard Strength, All Athletes Welcome Gym
Over the last decade, I’ve witnessed the fitness space transform. Health and fitness worldwide have shifted with new scientific principles, and among the most exciting has been the evolution of weight training and motherhood.
When I was in the womb, my mother lifted weights — a rarity at the time. Recently, I’ve had the privilege of helping moms break through the imaginary fitness ceiling. Two moms, Ashley and Bella, share their experiences lifting weights through pregnancy, postpartum and beyond.
What drove you to continue training through pregnancy?
Bella, mom of baby Travis: “Staying strong and active was important to me. I wanted to maintain my fitness, support my health and feel physically capable as my body changed.”
Ashley, mom of baby Piper: “I wanted to keep training because I didn’t want to lose the strength I’d worked so hard to gain. I also didn’t want to feel weak during pregnancy, and training helped me maintain that feeling of being capable and independent.”
How did it change you mentally and physically?
Ashley: “During birth, I felt strong and connected to my muscles, and afterwards it wasn’t long before I was back up and moving. I believe training helped so much in the recovery. Mentally, it kept me going. I had days that were super hard, and training kept me moving and gave me motivation to do more.”
Has your relationship with fitness impacted how you raise your child?
Bella: “Being active has taught me the importance of taking care of myself, and that’s something I hope to pass on to my child. I want them to grow up seeing exercise as a way to feel strong, healthy and confident.”
Ashley: “I want to keep training to show my daughter women can be strong and put their minds to anything they believe in.”
Any words of advice for moms looking to do the same?
Bella: “Every pregnancy and postpartum journey is different. Focus on what feels right for you and your body, and don’t worry about keeping up with anyone else. Some days you’ll have a great workout, and other days simply showing up and moving your body is enough.”