Fitness After Baby – Guest Post

01/19/2015

My name is Efuru Chrest and I am a wife and mother to three beautiful girls and have been a stay at home mom for the past almost six years. I myself have gained weight for each of my pregnancies and have had to work hard at getting back in shape.

I have been where you are and know how it feels to have the excess baby weight and not wanting to workout with people around and feeling self conscious. So I did my workouts in the comfort of my home with various DVDs and body weight training. With my last two pregnancies I gained 40 lbs plus and took a good 5-6 months of hard work to get back in shape and feel good again. I am now certified personal trainer for Fitness on the Go and I train clients in their homes. I have a love and passion for fitness and I was able to motivate and push myself to be physically active and take care of my body. I am here to help and motive other moms who are struggling with weight issues and who need that extra push/help in the right direction.

Family photo (Summer 2013). Aaliyah (6) top, Alayna (3 1/2) bottom left and

Alyssa (2) bottom right, and my husband Andrew.

Newborn Photo Shoot 2012

Few months Post-Baby, December 2012, 172 lbs

June 2013, 6 months Post-Baby. 128 lbs

Summer 2014

Here are a few health and fitness tips for moms:

-For new moms before starting any form of exercise make sure to not only have your 6 week checkup with your OBGYN but to also see a pelvic floor therapist (for C-section or vaginal deliveries) to make sure everything healed right and no prolapse.

-Start slow (depends on how many months post delivery) every mom is different and has their own unique experience so listen to your body. Three days a week doing a mix of cardio and strength exercises (body weight, light weights, resistance bands, stability ball) is a good start.

-Drink lots water and eat small healthy meals (5-6) throughout the day. I usually eat out of bowls or small plates as it portions out the meals great.

-Have a day where you can do a meal prep for the upcoming week and cook a variety of meats, whole grains, veggies, and snacks before hand so you’re prepared with good choices that will help with fat loss.

-Eating lean protein will aid in fat loss and keeps you fuller for longer as well as lots of fresh veggies and whole grains.

-Getting at least 7-9 hrs of sleep per night preferably but being a new mom or mom of a toddler can be challenging. I slept with my girls (still do on occasion) for nap times as at night was tough as I was nighttime feeding.

All you can do is your best and try to incorporate a healthy lifestyle in your daily schedule. There will be times when your overwhelmed or exhausted with caring for your family but if you can take some time out for yourself and make the decision to be a fit healthy mom and be consistent with it the rewards will be great. Not only will you look and feel amazing but you will be a role model for your children and spouse.

Get in contact with me and I will guide you in the new year towards a healthier you.

efuru@fitnessonthego.ca

Cell 780-668-4167

www.facebook.com/Efuru M.Chrest