The last poll indicated that exercising is clearly the hardest thing to do after having a baby.
So...how long should a new mom take to work off the extra weight?
I personally think gaining baby fat is almost like obtaining a new best friend. You laugh together, go shopping and of course spend time over Sunday brunch. At some point, there might come a time when you don't see eye-to-eye and contemplate going your separate ways; but in the end, you are inseparable.
Let's go through the mental stages of this new found relationship...
0-1yr - This has been a wonderful experience and I need to embrace being a mother and my new body. So what if I have a few extra pounds? An increase in bra size is not the worst thing in the world.
1-3yrs - I should start working out, but I'm too tired to cook, clean AND exercise. I vow to work out as soon as I finish taking a nap. (which happens to be when baby Joey is asleep)
3-5yrs- I can't believe three years have gone by! At this point maybe little Joey needs a little brother or sister. What is the point of exercising if I am going to gain the forty pounds back again?
5-7yrs - I'm done with having kids and a little extra fat is not so bad. We've already been together this long, Why let go now?
7-10yrs - I've bought clothes over the past 10 yrs to fit this new body. If I start exercising now, my body might change and I will need to spend money (that I don't have) on new clothes when little Joey needs a new pair of shoes.
10+ yrs - I think I forgot how to work out. I might pull a muscle if I start now. It might be safer to sit and watch my favorite tv show along with a slice of cake. Anyways, who cares if I am in shape? It's not all about looks. My family and my true friends love me no matter what.
No matter which stage you are in, it's never too late to snapback!
