A fitness blogger is making waves on Instagram, showcasing her impressive abs during pregnancy and sparking conversations among moms everywhere. While the journey of pregnancy often feels like a whirlwind of bodily changes and fatigue, some women manage to maintain their fitness—kudos to them! But for those of us who are more inclined to indulge in chocolate treats, we say, keep your “fit pregnancy” talk to a minimum.
Blogger Mia Johnson has faced criticism for not only staying remarkably toned throughout her pregnancy but also for proudly displaying her toned midsection online. Yes, pregnancy abs are a thing, although “pregnancy flabs” would be more fitting for many of us (no offense taken, right?).
Mia told Parenting Weekly, “It’s time to move past outdated beliefs and realize that you can be fit while pregnant. Pregnancy isn’t a limitation.” As she prepares to welcome her second child this May, she definitely embodies the commitment she promotes. Check out those abs—after you enjoy another salted caramel treat, of course!
Mia adds, “Many pregnant women think, ‘I don’t have the time or energy,’ or ‘I just don’t feel up to it,’ and that’s perfectly okay. I’m not judging your choices; just don’t criticize me for mine.”
Let’s be clear—anyone who criticizes this mom for her dedication to fitness during pregnancy is missing the point. She emphasizes in her Instagram post that her workouts are all doctor-approved, and research suggests that staying active can benefit the health of the unborn child. Improved labor experiences, quicker recovery times after childbirth, and, let’s be honest, looking good post-baby are all potential perks of maintaining fitness while pregnant.
However, we’re not saying it’s a requirement. This is a deeply personal decision that should involve discussions between a woman and her healthcare provider. Staying fit during pregnancy is admirable, but if an expectant mom prefers to spend nine months binge-watching her favorite shows and munching on snacks, that’s totally valid too.
Currently, I’m all about fitness myself. I engage in vigorous workouts several days a week and prioritize my health. However, during both of my pregnancies, my body insisted on a different approach. From the moment I saw that positive test, fatigue and cravings took over. No amount of fitness magazines or well-meaning advice from my husband could convince me to be a “fit” mom-to-be. And that’s absolutely fine!
Every mother should embrace her own pregnancy journey, whether it looks like Mia’s chiseled abs or my stretch-marked beach ball of a belly with bonus varicose veins. We’re all unique, navigating this experience in our own ways.
Judging Mia for her fitness routine is just as unkind as judging another mom for gaining weight while pregnant. It’s unnecessary and counterproductive. The best we can do is uplift one another—whether it’s cheering on our fit friends or sharing a family-sized bag of chips. And let’s be real, I know which one I prefer!
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In summary, every mom’s path through pregnancy is different, and we should support one another in our choices—whether that means exercising or indulging.