Keeping Fit for ME: A Note to Mamas Who Put Everything on Hold

I’m a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, teacher, and the list goes on. As women, we tend to take on many roles.  Personally, the most challenging role was my first year of motherhood. Once I became a mom, I began to put my needs, wants, and even sometimes my aspirations on hold. For example, prior to motherhood, fitness was something I took very seriously. Working out gave me peace. Not only did it give me peace, but seeing the results made me feel good internally and externally. You know, “when you look good, you feel good.”

“I was pouring everything into my child, but was not pouring nearly as much into myself.”

As a new mom, I found it almost impossible to workout. The constant breastfeeding, doctor’s visits, my husband’s deployments, and family being so far away… I felt as though working out was a thing of the past. As a result, I was not happy about my “self-care” routine. I felt as though something was missing. I was pouring everything into my child, but was not pouring nearly as much into myself. One day I awakened and decided to stop feeling sorry for myself and to do something about those negative feelings. I began to look up gyms that offered childcare. Childcare being offered was a must! During my search, I sparked interest in the YMCA website.

The very next day, I drove to the YMCA and toured their facility. I LOVED everything about it. It just felt “right”, especially their childcare! Needless to say, after a year of many changes, my workout journey had begun! At the time, I was a stay-at-home mom which made it possible for me to attend multiple classes in one day. I felt like my old self again! Working out gave me self-confidence, energy, and a sense of self-fulfillment.

Fast forward, I am now six years into motherhood. I am working AND have created a routine that allows me to workout. For new mothers and mothers who may have a hard time finding that balance, keep pushing.  We have all been there. While once being a collegiate athlete, not working out at all was a major adjustment, especially after becoming a mom. There have been many setbacks, but those setbacks have allowed for many comebacks.

So here’s my note to you… To the mothers who are looking to maintain fitness goals, remain consistent and do not compare your journey to anyone else’s. The old saying, “you cannot pour from an empty cup” is true.  Moms, hold on to your “why” and be intentional with your time. You’ve got this!