Health & Exercise — The Bump

What helped YOU get lean, toned, with curves

jaypen13 — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 20:56:24 +0000

I want to get lean, toned, and I have curves so I would like to keep them in a healthy attractive way. I'm 5'3 1/2" tall. I've always been pretty toned before baby but weighed around 150 at a size 5. I blame it on the big appetite. I used to workout with heavy weights and lots of cardio. What worked for you? Weights/no weights, lots/little cardio, etc.. I'm 4 months pp. I'm at my pre pregnancy weight but lost muscle and my waist is driving me nuts. It's not shrinking fast enough. Give me or direct me to some good advice please ladies. TIA :)

T25 workout

carriec1111 — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 14:28:08 +0000

Hi! I just ordered T25 and can't wait to start. Does anyone else do this workout? How many pounds have you lost. I should be getting it in the mail next week. I am a Billy Blanks Tae bo fan-his old stuff. Advanced get ripped is great but its 50 min. long and its hard to get that all in some days. I also enjoy Jackie Warner-great arm workout. But I heard great things about T25 and its not as crazy or long as Insanity. I love to run but I can barely do a mile anymore-I was doing 6 miles before I got pregnant. But as winter approaches, I wont be able to get running outside-and I hate gyms and treadmills. But in the Spring I am going to get serious again with running and get a jogging stroller too.

CHALLENGE #5: 1/14 - 22 Days of Fitness & Health

BumpJackie — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 14:35:13 +0000

Skip the late-night snacks. Don’t consume anything -- we’re talking about food and drink -- less than two hours before bedtime. “There’s the likelihood that it will cause reflux or heartburn,” says Dr. Sam Sugar, MD, director of Sleep Health Programs at the Pritikin Longevity Center + Spa. And that would keep you wide awake and uncomfortable.

Do you find night time eating keeps you up?

Running after delivery? How soon? How far?

nmackinnon — Sun, 12 Jan 2014 02:47:36 +0000

How soon did you begin running after delivery? And how far did you run/how did you build mileage?
I registered for a half marathon months before my BFP and the race is 7 weeks after my EDD. I have run several half marathons and a full marathon before pregnancy and plan to run as deep into pregnancy as possible. My midwife said running a half marathon 7-weeks PP will cause me to bleed, but did add walking it should be okay. I'm hoping I can go for a combined walk/run, but definitely don't want to push my body too far. Obviously, when the time comes I will listen to what my body is telling me (and crossing my fingers for an 'ahead of EDD' delivery for longer recovery time). But curious as to how soon you runners got back out there?

Recommend your running stroller/bike trailer.

MNswimmer — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 19:31:52 +0000

I'm an avid biker, and like to jog. I already have an everyday stroller (used from SIL). Should I get a separate jogger and bike trailer? Or a joint one. One reason I'm wondering is it seams like the joint ones, the youngest child can be is around 1. I am due July 3rd, and though I didn't anticipate jogging right away, we have a dog that we like to walk. I thought it would be easier to use a jogger type stroller that the car seat fits in. What do you use. TIA

Weight loss weaning

kfelber07 — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 13:18:07 +0000

For those of you that list weight after weaning, how long after you weaned did you notice it??

CHALLENGE #1: 1/10 - 22 Days of Fitness & Health

BumpJackie — Fri, 10 Jan 2014 19:24:31 +0000

Challenge Yourself.
Workout by Micky Marie Morrison, perinatal fitness expert and author of Baby Weight: The Complete Guide to Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness.

Jumping Jacks - Inhale as you lift your arms out the sides and up over head while jumping the legs apart, exhale to bring the arms down to your sides and jump your legs together. (Low-impact variation: Wide leg squats- Standing with feet open wide and reaching upward toward the corners of the room, exhale to bend the knees deeply as you )

Jumping Lunges- Start by stepping one foot forward to a high lunge position (both heels down). Exhale as you jump the back foot forward and the front foot back. Count one rep when you return to starting position and have done the lunge on both legs. (Low-impact variation: Instead of jumping, exhale as you step the right foot forward and dip the left knee down toward the floor just a few inches, Inhale to step the right foot back. Repeat with left leg forward to complete one rep)

Plank Jacks- From plank position (the top of a push up), jump your feet open wide as you exhale then jump them back together as you inhale. Keep hips down in line with your body and draw the belly button inward throughout the exercise. (Low-impact variation: Don't jump feet apart, instead step one foot at a time out then one foot at a time back in).

"Girls" Push Ups- From Plank position, drop your knees, keeping hips in line w/ the body and elbows close to the sides, exhale to lower your chest toward the floor, inhale back up to starting position. (Low-impact variation- Do only 5 reps)

Bicycle Abs- Lying on your back with both knees bent and shins parallel to floor, press your low back flat into the floor and exhale as you take the right leg straight while bringing the right elbow to the left knee and the knee to the elbow. Count one rep when you return to starting position and have done the bicycle on both legs. (Low-impact variation: Keep your head and shoulders on the floor and hands resting by your sides).

The low-impact version of each exercise is appropriate for beginners or prenatal moms. If you are pregnant, please do only the low-impact variation.

Do 10 reps of each exercise without stopping for rest between exercises. Rest for 10 full breaths in child's pose after you finish then repeat at least once more!

Work your way up to 4 or 5 sets of this circuit for a great workout!

Did you miss our live chat with Micky? Visit here to read her fitness and health advice: https://forums.thebump.com/discussion/12223541/live-chat-with-micky-marie-morrison-at-1pm-today/p1

CHALLENGE #2: 1/11 - 22 Days of Fitness & Health

BumpJackie — Sun, 12 Jan 2014 20:59:25 +0000

Write it down. Set your intention in ink so you can clearly define your goals and track your progress. You can do this with a goal board on a white board or a small chart taped to your bathroom mirror. Make motivational post-it notes to scatter around the house, car and office to help keep your goals fresh in your mind. It will help you remember to take the stairs and make you think twice before picking up a leftover Christmas cookie -- Micky Marie Morrison, perinatal fitness expert and author of Baby Weight: The Complete Guide to Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness.

What are your top 3 goals for a healthier you in 2014?

CHALLENGE #3: 1/12 - 22 days of Fitness and Health

BumpJackie — Sun, 12 Jan 2014 21:00:18 +0000

Look for tools. There are so many resources to help you on your path. Whatever your goal, there is probably an app for that (seriously!). Apps abound for everything from tracking nutritional intake to getting your on the way to a 5K. Use today’s nifty technological tools to help track your progress and keep you motivated. If you like exercise classes but find making it to classes too difficult with your schedule, try a DVD or an online fitness class. -- Micky Marie Morrison, perinatal fitness expert and author of Baby Weight: The Complete Guide to Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness.

What tools have you tried and do you love for tracking fitness and health?

CHALLENGE #4: 1/13 - 22 Days of Fitness & Health

BumpJackie — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 13:04:54 +0000

Aim for nine cups of water a day. Not sleeping enough can make you as dehydrated as not drinking enough fluids, says Lisa Suriano, a certified nutritionist and founder of national nutrition education program Veggiecation. If you’re bored with just plain water, Suriano suggests snacking on precut watermelon and drinking coconut water (it’s a natural sports drink!) -- both hydrate and replace electrolytes. Fruits and veggies with a high percentage of water can also give you the hydration you need: Try oranges, berries, cucumbers and celery.

Body Fat Percentage Question

kellybean14 — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 15:13:29 +0000

Hi Ladies!

Do any of you know what a healthy body fat % is for women who are in their second trimester? I know that women who have a normal BMI should gain anywhere from 25-35 pounds throughout the pregnancy, but does that all come from fat?

Also, do you know how much body % a woman should have right before giving birth?

I have an appointment later this month and can ask then, too, but figured one of you may have already asked this question.

Thanks!

Paleo

Beedeck — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 21:26:46 +0000

Any Paleo Mommies here? My Co-worker got me hooked in October, I read The Paleo Solution by Robb Wolfe and completed the Whole30 the same month, I lost 15lbs and kept it off. I got a little side tracked in December due to the holidays but since I got my BFP on 12/26 I've been back at it.

Astham and Delivery???

MollyMae27 — Sat, 11 Jan 2014 19:10:35 +0000

I have asthma and that puts me in the "high-risk" area, I was wondering if anyone knows what are my chances of having a c-section? I have asked my DR but she has not gotten back to me yet... I was just wondering if anyone else know what my chances might be...

Thanks,
-M

XP: TTC question

mindaa — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 22:59:50 +0000

Hi, I'm lurking from a TTC board...

Wanted to ask all you runners and athletic ladies if your OB or RE suggested cutting back on exercise while TTC?

With so much emphasis on staying healthy and lean when TTC, I kind of ignored my acupuncturist's suggestion to scale down my workouts a little. My BMI and body fat % are right in the middle (not on the low end) of healthy range. And I've never missed a period in my life. Yes, I work out regularly, but I'm definitely no ultramarathon runner or Olympic gymnast.

However, in doing a basic Google search, I found a couple studies that may prove me wrong (ie. jogging only 12-18 miles/week can cause fertility probs), and I'm just wondering what others had been told?

weekly check-in Jan 6-12

mommaoftrips — Mon, 06 Jan 2014 17:41:10 +0000

Hey ladies, This is our new check-in, let's us this as a place to cheer each other on and to stay motivated. please answer the following: A) quick intro with your goals B) how was last week C) what is your favorite post-exercise treat Have a great week! Me: A) I have 16 month old triplets. I am back at workfull time and struggling to fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes. My goal is to drop at a minimum 5lbs but would love to loose the last 20. I was a varsity xcountry/track runner (distance) and want to get back into running shape. Currently, I am running 20 minutes only, 2-3 times a week (if I am lucky) after the LOS go down at night - only have time for 20 minutes. B) as I was still on vacation last week, it was a bust. Only ran once :( but I have been eating better and started weekly meal planning. C) I love a big glass of chocolate mike but to be honest. I haven't bought any in over 2 years.

An Odd Problem

LittleNugget93 — Sun, 05 Jan 2014 19:25:29 +0000

I am insecure about my post baby body. I'm still 10 pounds away from where I'd like to be. Unfortunately, I don't feel like I can share my insecurities with anyone because everyone says, "Oh my god! What are you talking about? You don't even look like you had a baby!". I've heard that so much that you'd think it would make me feel great...but really it just makes me feel like my insecurities aren't valid. Even mentioning that I want to start working out again grants me looks as if I'm crazy.

Anyone else deal with this? I know I just have to get over it...but it sucks right now. Haha.

Live Chat with Micky Marie Morrison at 1PM Today

BumpJackie — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 21:03:46 +0000

Hi Everyone!

Today, from 1PM-2PM we will have a live chat with Micky Marie Morrison, author of Baby Weight: The Complete Guide to Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness to answer all of your health and fitness questions!

Feel free to comment below with any questions ahead of time. We’ll see you all on tomorrow!

Micky Marie Morrison is a physical therapist, a perinatal fitness educator, and author of Baby Weight: The Complete Guide to Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness. Micky has recorded over 100 videos for the online fitness series featured on BabyWeight.TV and is a regular contributor to The Bump.

www.twitter.com/babyweightbook
www.facebook.com/BabyWeightTV

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

mnnice — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 21:20:46 +0000

Just trying to get some real feedback about these dvds, what are the work out likes? How about the meal plans are they pretty doable?

Alcohol

klar4230 — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 03:40:07 +0000

Anyone have issues with the taste of alcohol changing after pregnancy?

weekly check-in/new years resolutioners?!?

mommaoftrips — Sat, 04 Jan 2014 02:45:15 +0000

Hi everyone, I am wondering if anyone would be interested in doing a weekly check-in (again, this used to be done on here) as a way to support and motivate each other. If interested, please reply and if there is people - I will start this on Monday. Cheers.

Deleted

cjespinoza — Sat, 04 Jan 2014 17:16:15 +0000

Question re myfitnesspal

IBackBevo — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 01:43:19 +0000

For those who have used myfitnesspal while pregnant, how did you change your setting to pregnant?

Pink eye during pregnancy

asparagus95 — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 14:32:06 +0000

Has anyone contracted pink eye while pregnant? Wondering what the treatment is. I know some antibiotic drops are safe and some aren't, so just asking if anyone has recent experience with this. Thanks!

Rosacea

mamantraining — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 06:13:04 +0000

I have been dealing with this and haven't had any relief from prescription creams. Has anyone had success with natural remedies, either topical or diet? I should mention I only have one bump but my skin on parts of my face is very red and burns.

"Morning" Sickness

jacobandnikki12 — Wed, 25 Dec 2013 00:50:51 +0000

I was sick all day everyday with my first so when I found out I was pregnant a few weeks ago I was soooo hoping this one would be different. Well it's not been so far! I am absolutely miserable! It's been almost 10 years since my last pregnancy and I can't remember what, if anything helped to relieve my sickness before...if there's anything specific that helped you please pass along the info! Thanks in advance...

Maternity Clothes

marathonmom823 — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 19:20:39 +0000

So, I'm 13 weeks pg with baby #2. I have a 2.5 yr old boy. I didn't buy any maternity clothes for my pregnancy with him because there was nothing small enough at any of the stores around here. Seriously, none of the stores carried XS in anything. I was able to make do with a belly band over my shorts (he was born late Aug) and wore most of my normal tops. Only problem with that was that some of the t-shirts an tanks got stretched. I could never wear the maternity pants/shorts because there's just way too much extra fabric in the butt/thigh area. I have only gained 1.5# so far with this one and it's all in my boobs (sadly- I HATE that my boobs get bigger. I like my tiny 32a's!) Anyhow- I know there must be other fit, small women out there- where did you buy maternity clothes? Ones that actually fit smaller-sized women, and don't look like shapeless tents? I'm 5'6" and was 117 at my appt today. Thanks!

Question to the STM who work out - what did you look like 1 mo post baby?

awknyc — Fri, 22 Nov 2013 20:38:09 +0000

Hi Ladies! For those of you who are avid exercisers, I was just curious how did you look 1 month after you delivered? I'm only asking because I am the MOH in a wedding which is literally 4 weeks after my EDD. Did you still look obviously pregnant? Or a little thick in the middle? We are in the process of nailing down the bridesmaid dresses and I have to order mine within the next couple weeks, but don't know if it's too risky to order only one size up? Should I be going up 2 sizes? Little background on me: I go to the gym 3-4x, I'm 5'6" and wear a size 4, should I be getting a 6 or an 8? I understand that after only mere weeks after delivery there is only so much bouncing back your body can do, but just want to set some realistic expectations for what's to come. Thanks!

Losing weight before getting pregnant

stephhpets — Tue, 31 Dec 2013 20:11:48 +0000

I do worry a bit about losing the weight after pregnancy, I think a lot of us do.

So in an attempt to make the process easier, I lost 15 lbs recently by joining weight watchers. I am 5'4", and went from 137 to 121. My BMI is 20.8, which from what I read, is in the zone for BMI and pregnancy. This could all be for nothing though since I am not yet pregnant! Has anyone else here had a successful experience with losing weight prior to pregnancy, and then taking it off?

Best sports bra??

duckfaces — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 02:37:48 +0000

Can you recommend your favorite sports bra? Not sure if this matters but I am a "C" cup! TIA

Pushing myself

Nancy1250 — Tue, 31 Dec 2013 11:24:22 +0000

So before pregnancy, I used to push myself. My workouts varied from 7 to bouts of level 10 exertions (short hiit). I am 14 wks and I workout 3 times a week at a 3-6 level. I'm scared to push myself. Can we get to 7,8,9? Where do we draw the line? Also, when I run I feel pressure from possibly uterus jumping all over the place? Do I bare discomfort? Is it normal? Finally, is stationary cycling safe as cardio? Thank you!!

For those of you who worked out/stayed fit throughout your pregnancy...

MrsR912 — Mon, 14 Oct 2013 20:55:01 +0000

How was your recovery afterward? My mom told me she stayed in shape and ate healthy foods for all three pregnancies and was back in her regular clothes within a month and felt great. She did only gain the recommended 20-25lbs (her OBs recommendation at the time). Did anyone else have this kind of experience or was she an anomaly? Thanks!!

work out schedule/ getting started

mommymegan831 — Sun, 29 Dec 2013 01:17:09 +0000

I used to work out very regularly, since having kids I've always worked out, but don't really have much of a routine or schedule. Now that they're 3 1/2 and 1 1/2 I want to tighten things up, both myself and my work out routine. I'm going to plan a 1/2 marathon for the spring. I can easily do 4 miles now, so it will take some training, but nothing outrageous.

I can get to the gym for about 40 min, and do about 10-15 min of abs and push ups at home. If I aim for 4 gym days, do you think I should focus on running two days and weights 2 days or do shorter runs (20 min) 2 days and 20 min of elliptical the other 2 days with 20 min of weights everyday?

Any other tips for toning and tightening I'd appreciate. I'm in decent shape, but I really want to get bikini ready.

Best walking stroller?

EmmaD312 — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 00:57:23 +0000

The stroller hunt is on! I live in Chicago and log lots of miles walking around the city and on our lakefront path. Which models should I look at? The BOB, the Vista, the City Mini GT...I'm so confused!

weight gain on zoloft?

Shopaholic42488 — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 20:38:55 +0000

My doctor just prescribed me 25mg zoloft for PPD. Has anyone experienced weight gain with this dose/drug? I think that would make me more depressed!

No weight loss nursing

kfelber07 — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 12:22:51 +0000

Ok ladies, I need some hope! Nursing my twin 10 month old boys and the last ten pounds just will not go away. No matter what I eat/don't eat, no matter how many miles I run, it will not budge. Anyone lose the last 10-15 lbs after they weaned? How long did it take? I feel so bloated and uncomfortable

Yoga DVD suggestion needed

MamaMiccichi — Sun, 01 Dec 2013 21:41:55 +0000

Can anyone suggest a good yoga workout? My son is six months old and I am still having a lot of hip/lower back pain and yoga was suggested to me by my massage therapist. I currently own turbo fire, and it includes a 40 minute stretch DVD which is yoga based, but I want a workout not a stretch. Thanks in advance

SCABIES? Any experience? help please

pregowithboy1 — Fri, 20 Dec 2013 04:17:38 +0000

My family got scabies two months ago. We treated twice but washed clothes in warm water not hot but we did dry on hot. Anybody ever do that?it's been a month and a half and my itch has slowly gone, but some bumps pop up here and there that aren't itchy. Is this normal? What was your experience and how did u do cleaning? Also when did you know you were cured? I'm hoping this is truly gone, I'm pregnant also.

Weight Gain Issues

BaabyCakee — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 20:52:37 +0000

Is anyone else having a hard time gaing weight? I'm 19 weeks and 3 days today. My pre pregnancy weight was 132lbs. I lost three pounds in my first trimester due to really bad morning sickness. I'm currently at 134lbs. I eat all the time and try to make health choices most of the time. When ever I see my Doctor she says I need to put on more weight.

Heart rate?

GreyAquaLimePeach&White — Sun, 15 Dec 2013 23:36:03 +0000

Hi, I'm in good shape and worked out before pregnancy. My dr said he tells his patients not to let their heart rate get above 130 during pregnancy. I tried working out and within minutes it gets up to 130, with cutting back and going slower from my normal routine. My friend who is pregnant said her dr said "not above 160." Any thoughts? Thank you!

Zumba at Home?

unaveragejane — Mon, 11 Nov 2013 02:19:31 +0000

I used to really enjoy Zumba at the gym, but we cancelled my membership now that I SAH. I'm thinking about trying the Zumba DVDs or games. Has anyone tried them? How do they compare to actual classes?