It's becoming more popular. You see It everywhere, twitter, instagram, facebook. #Fitmom. Yes, I know it automatically annoys the crap out of some people. But unless you're living it you may not understand it.
I use to think that way, I was super annoyed with the moms who had little ones and still looked amazing. They talked about going to the gym, running, fitting in their old jeans just days or weeks after baby and I just wanted to smack them. Seriously, I totally get it. After having my first c-section, along with gaining around 60 lbs. I did not recognize my body. What was this squishy, stretch marked mess I was handed? I couldn't even get my old pants over my thighs!
So I gave up, and I really despised everyone that looked so good after having kids. Fast forward a few years. After a couple more kids, a lot more weight gained and lost, and finally coming to terms about my body, learning more about myself and what I needed, I understand. They really were not doing it just to piss me off. They were doing it to better themselves. They were doing it to be healthy, to be able to run and play with their kids, to live longer for their kids.
I know a lot of people think that "fitmoms" are selfish. I've actually heard people say "maybe you should play with your kids instead of wasting all that time exercising." But in all honesty, does it really hurt my kids if I get up before they even get out of bed (with daddy home of course) and go to the gym? Does it really scar them for life if they watch me do my at home workout while they're having a snack or coloring? I doubt it. Actually, I want them to see me working out. I want them to know the importance of health. No, I don't want to be obsessed with weight. But I DO want them to know and understand the importance of being healthy.
It seems people either looove being fit and healthy or absolutely, positively, despise it. So, let me just say it's OK to not love working out. But it's also ok to not make fun of people and be mean to people who do. It's OK to not want to eat healthy all the time. But that doesn't mean you have to constantly down someone who prefers vegetables over chocolate (yes it's possible.)
I promise "fitmoms" are not out to get you. They are absolutely not trying to make you feel worse about yourself. In fact it's quite the opposite! They want to motivate you and show you that if you want it bad enough, it is possible. They also are not doing it as some midlife crisis, or because they're cheating on their significant others. (Yes some people actually think that.) No they don't do it for attention, or for other men to see them but yes it does feel good when your husband notices your hard work and gives you a little pat on the butt once in a while ;) When you feel better about yourself it makes all the difference in the world about how you present yourself. You feel better in clothes, you feel better naked, you just feel better, which of course makes you a happier person. Many people think there has to be a motive when someone starts working on bettering themselves but actually, it's just that simple. They know they can be better so they want to be better.
I'm definitely not saying it is everyones thing. There is no reason to be ashamed of your size whether your plus size or naturally a size zero. As long as you're HEALTHY and happy. That's all that truly matters.
Just do me a favor and remember this. When one of your friends (or for any men reading) your wives, start working out a little more, eating healthier, etc. I know your first thought may be "oh great now we have to see her health posts and gym selfies." Stop yourself. Because she doesn't need anyone else bringing her down. Resist the urge to make fun of her, or to tease her with brownies. Don't mock her, or tell her it's just a phase. I'm sure she's fought herself enough with all of that and is probably a little nervous about her new choices. What she needs is a friend. Someone to back her up, tell her she absolutely CAN do this. Tell her you're proud of her! You don't have to want to do it yourself but you don't have to bring her down either. She needed support when she found out she was pregnant, when she was fighting her newborn with a tongue tie to latch on. When the kids had completely destroyed the house and she hadn't showered in days. She had your support then, she still needs it now. This is her chance to work on herself so she can feel better. She deserves it. So, even if you don't agree. Just be there. I promise she will notice and will be so very, very thankful.
Oh, and the next time you see #Fitmom resist the urge to roll your eyes ;) and just smile instead!
