It simply works for me because I have a husband that is willing to, and can step in to help with the kids while I take off to the gym
~Imharia
At Maternity Nest, we are always on the look out for mothers who have successfully bounced back, and are fit after having their babies.
We know it’s such a struggle to combine our FitFam goals with our busy mommy/wifey/work schedules; therefore we try to get all the details on how they are able to achieve this, so as to encourage other moms and moms-to-be who may be in need of inspiration/motivation to stay fit after pregnancy.
We had a chat with Imharia; a mom of two, who has totally wowed us with her amazing post-baby body. She shared some useful tips with us. We hope her tips motivate you. Enjoy!
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I am a Senior Financial Analyst at a Pharmaceutical Company. I have two boys – ages 4 and 2. I love shopping, traveling and exercising.
First of all, what is your opinion about the societal pressure on women to lose weight after pregnancy?
It is wrong. It is completely up to the woman if and/or when she decides to lose weight after giving birth. Women go through a lot of changes during the nine month period after which she deals with the joys of postpartum not to mention having to focus on taking care of a newborn. The list goes on… So please women, it’s completely up to YOU.
What was your weight at the end of your last pregnancy? And how much weight have you lost so far?
 I weighed approximately 175lbs and have lost 40lbs.
When after childbirth did you start your fitness journey? And how long has it taken to get to your current weight?
I started with light exercise regimens at eight weeks after giving birth. It took six – nine months to get back to my current weight.
So tell us more about your weight loss regimen. What is the secret to your enviable post-baby bod?
I exercise three to four times a week. My exercise routines consist of running (twice a week), one hour body work and abs classes which includes lightweight dumbbells to help tone and sculpt the body. I am a firm believer that dream bodies are made in the kitchen. A healthy diet will get you to your dream body that much quicker. By no means do I suggest eliminating those mouth watering unhealthy dishes or treats…never! Indulge…set one day aside as a cheat day. However, on other days, I keep my meals healthy and clean. For instance, what would have been a plate full of rice and stew, I minimized the portion, replaced the white rice with brown, added a variety of vegetables and made sure my stew was made with just enough oil. Another healthy dish I love is salmon (or lean meat) and lots of vegetables. By eating healthily and excercising, I noticed my body take on a much better shape than I had been pre-pregnancy. It was a complete lifestyle change!
What/Who is your greatest motivation to keep pushing?
My husband, who exercises regularly and also pictures of myself pre-pregnancy ☺
Walk us through your daily meal plan. How many times in a day do you eat, and what do you eat at those times?
 Oops I gave a couple of dinner ideas in the previous question, so to add:
Breakfast: Yogurt, granola and fruit or Oatmeal and banana or Scrambled eggs with spinach and toast. Lunch: Salad with grilled chicken or Quinoa and stew with chicken and veggies Tuna melt on wheat bread. Dinner (in addition to above): Oatmeal fufu and soup, Moi moi & Stew. In between meals, I snack a lot which includes: fruits granola bars rice cakes etc.
Will it become a lifestyle? Or you will stop once you hit your target weight?
I can’t lie, it became a lifestyle for a while, but after my second child, it became difficult to keep up. I wasn’t able to exercise as much as I used to and couldn’t find time to prepare healthy dishes. Once I found a balance and had a routine in place, I bounced back and have since been able to maintain that lifestyle.
What are the challenges/weaknesses/ temptations you face and how do you overcome them?
Laziness, cravings…you name it. I have been faced with all of them and have given in most of the time :-). It is however important to think about what it is you’re looking to achieve. I think about the end goal – that fabulous summer bod, feeling good, increased energy and your overall health.
But how are you able to incorporate your fitness regimen into your daily Work/ Mommy/ Wife schedule? Where do you find the time and strength? How does it work out for you? Any practical tips to share?
I honestly can’t list a number of tips. It simply works for me because I have a husband that is willing to and can step in to help with the kids while I take off to the gym. Without that I’m not sure how else I would be able to exercise as much as I do.
What are the best things you have found about losing weight?
I feel great!
Finally, what is your advice to other Moms who are struggling and want to do what you have done?
Take your time. You just had a child. Once you feel ready, try out a number of different workout routines, meals etc that work for you. As time goes on, you will know what works for your schedule. Everyone’s journey is different – take your time in mapping yours out.
Thank you for taking the time to respond to our questions. We really appreciate it.
Oh no problems at all.
Have you been able to lose that excess baby weight? How did you do it? Interested in motivating other women by sharing your tips and regimen? Get in touch with us by sending an email to features@maternitynest.com with the subject “my post-baby body”.
Do you need support and motivation to lose weight? Join other moms in the Postpartum weight loss challenge forum. Let’s struggle together! See you there!
