This is the longest post ever. Proceed at your own risk. ;-)
I wasn’t sure about jumping into the landmine that is a weight loss post, people are so passionate about it, but I get asked all the time how I’ve lost my baby weight after each of my 4 pregnancies. So I decided to write a little post about what works for me. That being said, I understand that every woman/person’s body and chemistry is different. What works for me may not work for you. I’m not an expert, I’m just a mom who wants to stay in shape. ;-)
Now on to the post!
I’ve found that the key to success at any number of things in life, is to find out what works for you, practically. Lofty goals and ideals that aren’t based in your personal reality are the seeds for disappointment and self loathing. This is sometimes a difficult concept for me, because I have a tendency to be a bit of a perfectionist. “I don’t want to workout unless I can get a full workout, I don’t want to meal plan unless every meal is perfectly tailored to our health and fitness goals…” etc, etc. Well, I have four kids, and guess what. That doesn’t leave enough time for ideals. What I have found is a system that works for me, that jump-starts my weight loss very soon post-partum, and helps me remain healthy long after. It’s a combination of three simple things.
1. Breastfeeding.
I am such a huge fan of breastfeeding my babies. It’s not always easy, and I’ve had my share of traumatic breastfeeding moments, but I love it so much. And it is so mutually beneficial. We talk about how great breastfeeding is for the baby all the time, but I’m always amazed how people seem to leave out all the benefits to the mom. Breastfeeding burns a lot of calories, like between 500-800 a day. You’d have to swim 30 laps in a pool or bike uphill for an hour to burn that many calories. And any activity where I can lose weight while simultaneously cuddling a chubby little baby is fine by me. Besides weight loss, breastfeeding releases Oxytocin which helps contract the uterus back to it’s pre-pregnancy size, helping to eliminate the “mom pooch,” while also helping to prevent post birth hemorrhaging. Studies have also shown that breastfeeding helps reduce breast, ovarian and uterine cancer. And I really like that it gives me a chance to sit down and rest every couple hours. When you’re chasing older kids around that might not happen otherwise. The trick to success with breastfeeding is to get your mind right. You’ve got to know what to expect going into it, and you’ve got to be committed, or when your breasts turn to rocks, your baby won’t latch properly, or your nipples bleed, you’ll give up. Breastfeeding is different for every woman and every baby, sometimes it comes easily, and sometimes it’s incredibly difficult. But if you go into it with a realistic view it will be a lot easier to be patient with yourself, your baby, and your boobs while the three of you figure it out. And now that I’ve said boobs, let’s move on…
2. Reasonably healthy eating.
I’m not going to lie, I’m not a health nut. My sister is like a ninja assassin when it comes to eating healthy (perfectly balanced meals, mostly organic, essential oils, substituting applesauce for oil and all that) but I am not. I’ve never been on a diet in my life; I don’t think I have enough self control for it. Plus I really like chocolate. I like to cook for fun, but honestly, making dinner every night is my least favorite chore, and we have spaghetti a lot more than I’d like to admit. We do have a few habits that I think help keep us healthier. First, we eat whole wheat everything. Pasta, bagels, tortillas, bread, you name it, If it’s a carb, we get the whole wheat variety. Second, I try to keep lots of fruits and veggies in the fridge; if they are there, we’ll eat them. Third, we don’t keep soda in the house. We’re not huge soda drinkers anyway, but not having it in the house means we drink water and milk everyday instead of pop. If I want a Dr. Pepper, I have to go to a drive thru to get it, and that means it’s a treat instead of a habit. Additionally, a few tips I have found work for me: first, eat slowly. It is so much harder to overeat if you are giving your head enough time to realize you are full. Second, don’t be afraid to be a picky eater. Mr. calls me a food diva, because I can be kind of particular about my food. (Think Meg Ryan in “When Harry Met Sally.”–“I’d like the pie heated and I don’t want the ice cream on top I want it on the side and I’d like the strawberry instead of vanilla if you have it, if not then no ice cream just whipped cream but only if it’s real, if it’s out of the can then nothing.”) I know it sounds ridiculous, but I’d rather skip the pie than eat it cold. (Ug, this is making me sound like such a food snob- maybe Mr is right?) Either way, being pickier helps me eat less, especially in the treat department. Store bought cookies aren’t worth the calories to me. I don’t enjoy them that much, so I just don’t eat them. A lot of people suggest not eating past a certain time of night, but I’ve never really subscribed to that. It might work great but I just really love a good midnight snack. ;-)
3. Exercise.
I once heard someone say, the trick to weight loss was move more, eat less. It’s kind of like, well yeah, duh, but if you think about it, how many of us really do that? We have become such a sedentary society. Most of our work nowadays involves sitting. I try to move as much as possible during the day. We are a very active family, and (as I mentioned a few weeks ago) we don’t watch TV or play video games. We play soccer in the greenbelt across from our house all the time, we love family bike rides, and going hiking. Mr. and I like to work out together, which keeps me motivated and gives a little more time to spend with him. (always a plus) It can be hard to fit a workout into a busy schedule, especially with a new baby, but I try to remember that 20 good minutes of cardio everyday is better than not working out at all.
I also try to rotate my workouts, because I have a short attention span and if I don’t I get bored doing the same thing every day. I do have a few favorites, though. I love to go running for my cardio, even 2 miles a day at a healthy pace is pretty effective for me. Yoga-shmoga. I’m all about Pilates. I’ve been practicing pilates for well over a decade, and I love love love it so much. It has gotten me through all 4 of my pregnancies. I get excruciating back pain when I am pregnant, and Pilates is the only thing that helps. It’s very core based, which is great for getting you ready to “push” before you have the baby, and helping to get your abs looking lean again post- partun. I also find it to be incredibly relaxing. I always feel calmer, more center and aligned when I finish doing pilates. If you are looking to try it at home, I recommend Stott Pilates. If you’re just getting started this is a great beginning- intermediate DVD to start with, and I really like how it focuses on trouble areas. If you’re considering taking Pilates at a gym make sure the instructor is a certified Pilates instructor. Trust me on that one. Mr and I also did Insanity a few years ago, which is just as crazy as it sounds, but it works really well. I lost like 7 pounds in 3 weeks. I’ve considered doing it again, but honestly I think it might kill me right now. I’m trying to build up to that again.
Last word on working out. I used to despise running, like in the depths of my soul despise it. And then a few years ago Mr. convinced me to do a Ragnar relay with him, and I reluctantly agreed and started training. Running everyday was the literal worst. And then I decided to buy myself a decent pair of running shoes, and my life seriously changed. I fell in love with running. I am now hopelessly devoted to Sauconies. They are my most favorite running shoe. Long story short, buy the workout clothes/shoes that are going to help you work out better. Make sure that they make you feel comfortable, you can move in them, and that they are adequately supportive. I have been in love with my Nike running tight capris for years, and haven’t found another pair I loved as much until Albion fit sent me this pair. They are super soft, supportive without feeling too thick, and have a fabulous waistband. I tell you what, the waistband will make or break it for me. I can’t wait until their balanced bermuda comes back in stock, because I’m getting a pair.
Aaaand that’s it.
(I know, long winded)
Now it’s your turn. What are your tried and true workout/weightloss secrets?
You’re totally right – my kinvara sauconies are THE BEST. I seriously can’t imagine running in anything else.
You do look great! I don’t have baby weight I need to lose, just weight in general, so thanks for these tips! Definitely helpful! I don’t love running either but my husband and I signed up for a 5K so I kind of forced myself to start running which is good I guess. Happy Friday!
Xo,
Whitney
http://keepingupwiththecyperts.blogspot.com/
This is some really fantastic advice! I think often people over complicate things when it comes to weight loss and look for short cuts or the new fad diet. Sure this advice isn’t a silver bullet, but given time and dedication, the weight will come off.
I love this post! Honest and well balanced, thank you for touching on this topic because I am a long time reader and always wondered how you stayed in such amazing shape!
If you look good when working out, you’ll feel good! I like wearing pretty sports clothes, because I work harder and better when I look good. I don’t know why, but when I start working out thinking I look awful, I find it harder to get motivated. For my cardio, I use a weighted jump-rope. It burns a ton of calories, works out your entire body, and because the rope is weighted, is a great exercise for your arms and shoulders. If I had to recommend two pieces of equipment, I would say a jump-rope and ankle weights. I use mine the whole time and I’d be lost without both! 20 mins of exercise, twice a day, 3-4 days a week, and eating healthily 6 days a week, that’s my tried and trusted routine :)
I’m not a mother yet myself but you are such a great role model! thanks for sharinf these tips! xo
http://allthingsprettyandlittle.blogspot.com/
Great, practical advice!
One thing I’d like to add as a must-have for active moms – a BOB running stroller. Baby entertainment and workout in one – multitasking at its best!
Cheers!
-Michele :-)
http://thesaltyhanger.blogspot.com
Love this post as I will be in this stage after May! Thanks for the tips!
booo! i think you won a genetic jackpot. i never looked as good as you do even before the kiddos…darn these hips! :D
Hi Cari!
I have to agree with you, breastfeeding helped me lose an incredible amount of weight after both my pregnancies. Most people said i looked thinner than before LOL
Killing two birds with one stone; spending quality cuddle time with baby and burning some calories. What more could I ask for?
Loved you “long” post
Take care!
-Erika
OnceUponAMommy
You look stellar lady! Love the tips and you are living proof!
I used to despise running too, then one day my Mr. and I went running and 4 miles turned into 5 into 6. It was the furthest I had ever went and then something just sparked. Ive ran half marathons and a full in that time since. So nice and a good way to have your thoughts only to yourself!
Coffee Beans and Bobby Pins
I have found with running once I can get to the 4-5 mile mark it suddenly gets more enjoyable….like I can think and let my mind wander too!
I am with you on all of this. I think it is all about balance. Balancing healthy eating with exercise, and giving yourself permission to have a treat now and then. A treat doesn’t mean a whole pint of ice cream or an entire king-sized chocolate bar (or 3). My Mr. also says that I am a food snob and he is right. i would rather save my treat for something fabulous than eat something mediocre and not enjoy it but still put all of that garbage in my body! We also do not drink soda much and we try to only eat whole wheat everything as well as tonnes of fruits and veggies. I think it sounds like we have a lot of the same ideas in common and have had similar results (I have 4 littles too). Thanks for sharing this with the masses – sometimes it seems obvious but if it really was, more people would be doing it, right?
Love this post!! Great tips!
herestohappinesses.blogspot.com
Quick question: do you drink coffee? What do you have in the mornings? :) xo
I actually share a lot of your philosophies from breast feeding to whole grains to no soda in the house and a treat made well is the only one worth eating. I just never put it into words before, you did it very well! To me I have to be realistic too and some small stuff makes a big difference. I used to do Pilates but have not in a kong time and I think I am going to give it another go. By the way I own insanity and am afraid to do it at the moment, it is intense so maybe I just need to work up to it too:)
Great post! We have very similar ideas about being healthy and absolutely agree about the breastfeeding. I had a horrible experience with my first baby but kept at it because I’m stubborn that way. When the lactation people tell you to stop nursing and just pump, you know it’s bad.:) But nursing both of my boys helped me loose the baby weight. So I have a question for you, what Pilates prenatal routine did you use? I’m 22 weeks with my third baby, another boy. I’m already experiencing back pain because I’m a little gal, 5’4″ and same pants size as you. My doctor said because of my age and my size I had better start focusing on my core to make my pregnancy and labor easier. Plus I’m chasing around 2 little boys all day so mama’s hips and back hurt by the end of the day. My last baby boy was 8.14 Let’s just say they tested the scale twice to make sure it was working the hospital staff was so shocked. :)
First off you look incredible for having FOUR kids! Good job.
Ive lost 45 pounds myself over the last year and everyone always asks me how I did it, like it some unheard of secret that they need to discover. Honestly, I started with Weight Watchers because it helped me learn how to control my portions and make healthier food choices. Then after a few months that just kinda became how I ate. Exercise was in the picture but was never a huge portion of it.
I also cut back on a LOT of my drinking as well. That was probably one of the hardest parts for me because my husband and I enjoy eating out and drinking. It took me a whole year to wean myself down to a few beers a week.
I think a big part of loosing weight is your state of mind. I tried to start loosing a year before I actually did and it wasn’t successful. I just don’t think I was ready yet. I needed to hit rock bottom before I was willing to make a change and unfortunately that meant gaining more weight until I did.
A year later, Ive kept the weight off and am holding a steady healthy weight!
Once Upon The Hill
Such a great post! My weight-loss strategy was a lot of elliptical cardio and logging EVERY BITE of food on MyFitnessPal.com (I still use it when I get off track and it really helps rein me back in!). Once I brought the fluff down to a more manageable level, I dove into Zuzka Light’s ZWOWs on YouTube and they toned me up really well. It’s basically cross-fit but for free and you can do it anywhere with little or no equipment. I lost 25 pounds in a year and have maintained for a year.
Cori I think you look awesome. I can’t attest to post baby weight loss (I’m still not a mommy), but I was hit by a car in April 2010. By January 2012 I had gained 36 lbs. I’m only 5 feet so that’s a lot. I couldn’t really work out because I was in constant pain and during that time I turned 30. I think my metabolism turned off. Lol. I was so depressed. January 2012 I had enough. In the past year I have lost 46 lbs. My tools: LoseIt! App, Taebo, Jackie Warner, and sprint running intervals. I’m now a raw food vegan (90% of the time) and I’m in the best shape of my life. It’s not easy but when you are determined you will accomplish it. Stay strong.
You look great!
I’m going to have to look into those Pilates DVDs.
That scenery and seeing you dressed like that outside in February makes me wish I lived someplace else…Ah well…I suppose snow is good, too…sometimes…:/
“I’ve found that the key to success at any number of things in life, is to find out what works for you, practically. Lofty goals and ideals that aren’t based in your personal reality are the seeds for disappointment and self loathing.”
So true.
And the capris? Must have those.
I’m new to your blog and don’t get a chance to read/comment much but I love what you said about breastfeeding. It was such a hard thing at first but then eventually it payed off and I loooved it! So did my daughter :). I breastfed until she was just over a year old!
That is one of the best write-ups on why to breastfeed I’ve read. It’s better for YOU!!! Love it! And in my experiece it took all the baby weight off.
I really enjoyed this write up. I found it useful and realistic. thanks.