Post-baby fitness fun (Wait, fun? No, that can’t be right…)

Despite my beet-red head, wheezing, and shaky legs … I actually enjoyed running two miles last night.

It was the first time I’ve been running since before getting pregnant. I’ve never been much of an athlete, but I always liked running. I even ran a marathon back in college … although I was far from finishing first.

I pulled out the old running shoes because it’s time to start reclaiming my body. I hate that people look at me and think I’m still pregnant. Especially since Chloe is on the big side. Instead of thinking, “Oh, she just had a baby,” they probably think, “Wow, I can’t believe she’s having another baby so soon after the first!”

Running isn’t my only weapon of choice. I’ve also started doing yoga again. But, instead of heading to a class at the gym, it’s just me and my mat, late at night with a yoga DVD.

It’s amazing to me how much my body has changed—and I mean in non-obvious ways. The yoga DVD is one I had back when I was in college, twelve years ago (back when it was a VHS, in fact). Because I used to do this particular workout so much, I can remember poses that were previously very easy. Now, those poses either feel weird, hurt, or are impossible because of the bulk that remains in my belly area.

On the other hand, my legs and arms are much stronger now—undoubtedly from carrying two kids around, often at the same time.

As for flexibility, that’s pretty much out the window. I tried that stand-on-your-shoulders pose (used to love that one), and I think I bruised the back of my neck.

Running was just as graceless. I felt a lot like the people I used to judge—the ones who claim they’re running, but look more like they’re trying to speed-walk with over-emphatic arms.

It doesn’t help that hubby is getting in great shape since he’s prepping for a triathlon. He makes it look easy and makes me feel extra clumsy. To his credit though, he frequently tells me he loves my new lumpy body because of what it did to build our family. He also reminds me to be patient. Fitness will come in good time. I believe him … but I’m not the patient type. So, I’m setting some doable goals. My first one is to lose six pounds by the end of August. What about you? Do you have any post-baby fitness goals?