Nine Months to Put it on… Nine Months to Take it Off?

 

Most publications I have read state that post partum mom’s should expect to take off the weight in nine months. Other moms I have spoken to say that is quite realistic. So I am giving myself that leeway. However if I could be an exception to the rule that would be great. So my friend Julia and I have decided to become exceptions. We have both put on substantial pounds during our pregnancy. I put on about 45lbs. Three months after delivering our son I have shed about 35. So far the loss of water retention, and breastfeeding helped in taking off the weight pretty quickly. The other factor, Julia and I take a walk every morning. At first I took my little guy in a carrier, and that was a workout, now he sleeps in his stroller while we walk. It is great exercise, and a great social activity. We chat about our babies, our husbands, share tips and vent on mommy problems.

This week we have decided to step it up and find an exercise and diet program in an effort to shed the last ten pounds.

Here is how our journey is going so far.

On Monday:

We decided to do a thirty minute circuit program at our local women’s only boxing gym. There are 15 stations with 2 minutes each. The gym was high energy, with a great trainer and they are child friendly. I fell in love with it. Julia is on the fence. I think I will enroll starting next week.

On Tuesday:

We checked out our local Weight Watchers Meeting. It was interesting to hear about some tips that the meeting leaders shared. Including substituting bad habits for good ones. Waiting twenty minutes after a meal to see if one is still hungry before having more food. And not using food as a reward, instead doing something else, like taking a walk, calling a friend or reading a book when needing to reward self or take a break.

The program requires discipline on food and does not put a lot of emphasis on exercise. Right now that is what I want to be doing. So I have decided not to join just yet. I plan on exercising first, and then if I still need a boost in losing weight I will consider joining the program.

So today is Wednesday and I have to find a new thing to try or at least look into.