I'm a Fitness Pro, and I love Nachos

I've have gone through one of the most humbling periods of my life, and especially my fitness career, in the past several months. Like many people, I'm battling thoughts of "what do they think of me?" I have an image in my head of what a Personal Trainer or Fitness Instructor should look like.

Discovering I was pregnant at the age of 39, when my next youngest was nine and we were already thinking about life after the kids move out, threw me for a major loop. I was very depresses for a solid month. In that month, I felt sorry for myself which led to eating poorly and putting on weight. Then the guilt quickly followed as I observed my body, knowing the bulge wasn't a result of the pregnancy. What kind of an example am I?! How dare I call myself a Fitness pro!

Well, it's taken a few months of praying, researching and studying, but by God's amazing grace I've been able to accept my shortcomings and get back on track.

I want to share with others the reality, and give a little hope if I can. These days I'm back to a more disciplined workout regimen, taking my prenatal restrictions into account. I want to nourish my baby and my body with lots of leafy greens, clean protein, and all the vital nutrients. I'm not as trim and toned as I'd prefer, but I can give myself grace as I reach for some snack foods. I have friends and relatives that are strict eaters, especially when pregnant. But, I've found more joy and fulfillment returning to the "80/20" mindset that I strive for in my every day life. I make a concentrated effort to eat smart 80% of the time, but allow myself "treats" 20% of the time to give me that little boost that most of us regular people need. My doctors praise my health. I feel good. I'm trying to ignore those prideful thoughts of wondering how others view me. I can't wait to hold this little girl in my arms and know it was all worth the tough lessons.

If anyone else is walking down a similar road, I'd be happy to walk with you! Let's spend some time each week moving our bodies in a safe manner, and if you want to share how many handfuls of M&M's you ate last night, you'll get no judgment from me.