No matter what your family’s schedule looks like — whether you’re working or not — if you hold the title of “Mom,” you’re busy. Let me be frank, those leftover snacks can’t go to waste! Those pancakes you had to make from scratch because the kids begged for them when the freezer stash ran out? Yep, you have to take a bite at least! When both kids are down for a nap, do you lift weights or lay your head on a pillow after a long week? If you’re like me, you’re choosing the latter.
Take it from someone who’s always been active. Whether running cross country in high school, signing up for races, or planning outdoor adventures, my parents always joke that I don’t sit still for very long. It’s true. However, the definition of “fit” changes completely once you become a mom.
When I found out I was pregnant with my first baby, the world was shutting down due to COVID-19. My husband and I canceled our gym membership. I shifted my runs to taking neighborhood walks while growing a human (and, if I’m being completely honest, adding on a few extra COVID pounds). Nine months later, I gave birth to my daughter, and my world revolved entirely around her — as it should! Somewhere along the way though, I lost track of me. I didn’t return to my fitness goals or step foot back in a gym.
At the time, I was waking up at 2 a.m. for work, putting in 10+ hour days at the news station, and rushing home to relieve our nanny, transitioning from “work Lauren” to “Mommy” until bedtime. Rinse and repeat five days a week. By the weekend, the thought of working out didn’t even cross my mind.
Fast forward a year to New Year’s Day 2022. There I was, staring at about a dozen positive pregnancy tests on the bathroom counter. Here comes baby #2! This time around, growing a tiny human while chasing a toddler and working full-time was an entirely different ball game. By the time my son was born, I weighed the most I ever had. It wasn’t that the number on the scale mattered. I just felt awful health-wise for many reasons. I spent those newborn days soaking up moments with him and adjusting to life as a family of four, but I promised myself that once I returned to work and a routine, I’d find my way back to me.
Our family’s word for 2023 was “health.” I started simple, focusing on food and cutting out “mommy drinks” during the workweek (with the exception of Friday happy hour!). Slowly, I added workouts back into my life. But how did I manage that with my wacky schedule? The bottom line is, I didn’t let myself make excuses. I traded my “lunch hour” for movement — whether it was skipping over to San Marco’s Orangetheory (what’s up, 8:30 a.m. class!) or taking a run around downtown Jacksonville. Thank goodness the TV doesn’t have smell-o-vision! There’s nothing a little dry shampoo can’t fix, right? Later that year, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, and my brother and I decided to run a marathon in her honor. That goal kept me motivated and reminded me why prioritizing health matters so much.
READ: Guide to Fitness & Health in Jacksonville
Before long, fitness became a routine I couldn’t imagine my life without. My postpartum back pain faded, cravings disappeared, shopping for new clothes was fun again (Appropriately wearing crop tops? Okay, “cool mom”!), and my spirits lifted — even while navigating a significant career and life change. I proudly dusted off my pre-baby jeans, not solely because of the number on the scale, but because I felt like the mightiest, healthiest version of myself. I had grown two humans and come back stronger than ever.
I share this because being a mom is hard. Finding time for yourself feels nearly impossible most days, especially without family locally to lean on. Yet, prioritizing your health doesn’t just benefit you, it benefits your entire village. I want to be the mom who can chase her kids without losing her breath, carry both babies at once, and model resilience and confidence for them. Taking care of yourself allows you to show up fully for those around you.
A Few Tips to Help You Stay on Track
Here are some mantras that help me when I need a push:
- “It takes about 4 weeks for your body to start responding, 8 weeks for you to see changes, and 12 weeks for the world to notice.” Stay consistent and trust the process — it will pay off!
- “It might take 30 days to create a habit, but that habit could change your life for the next 30 years.” Think of the long-term benefits for you and your family, not just the short-term wins.
- “Start small and build from there.” Overwhelming yourself by trying to do everything at once will only derail you. Focus on one goal at a time, and add more as you go. Little by little, a little becomes a lot.
Did you make it to the end of this blog? You’re already well on your way, friend! When I worked on the green screen and my weight loss became noticeable, people often asked, “What are you doing?” The truth? What worked for me may not work for you. The key is finding what fits into your life and feels right for you. Finally, do it quietly and stick to it. Soon enough everyone will be asking you, too, what you’re doing differently.
Let’s get fit, mamas. Cheers!
