Keeping fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy is an absolute must. But these mums, who are taking over Instagram, are taking pregnancy fitness to a whole new level.
A typical #FitMum often posts bikini selfies, astounding followers with their lack of stretch marks. They also share videos of their exercise regimens which even include lifting weights.
Fit mums take over Instagram
A photo posted by hannahpolites (@hannahpolites) on
A quick scan of the #fitmum hashtag will reveal about 8 million posts. Most of these images and videos feature often heavily pregnant women doing intense exercises or boasting taut tummies barely two weeks after giving birth.
A photo posted by 🍔SARAH STAGE (@sarahstage) on
Sia Cooper, a 27-year-old personal trainer and mum-of-two told People: "The day I went into labour, I actually did incline training for an hour along with dumbbell curls and barbell squats...I got a great last workout in before my daughter decided to make her grand appearance!"
A photo posted by Sia Cooper (@diaryofafitmommyofficial) on
Inspiration and criticism
Even though their goal may be to inspire other mums, these #FitMums have been criticised for sending the wrong message to their thousands of social media followers.
For some pregnant women (whose pregnancies are sensitive) they may feel conflicted when they see these women who are in shape continuing strenuous exercise throughout their pregnancy.
Emphasising that there is "no excuse" to let yourself go can also be confused with not prioritising caring for your baby above all.
Excessive exercise during pregnancy poses health risks, too. They may reduce blood flow to the baby so it's best to consult with a physician before adopting a certain type of exercise during pregnancy.
A video posted by 👻 ChontelDuncan (@chontelduncan) on
Having a small baby bump may be indicative of abnormal weight gain during pregnancy. This may cause stunted fetal growth and development.
Despite all this, the important thing is for pregnant women to celebrate and encourage other expectant mums.
Baby bumps, big or small, are all beautiful. The important thing is having a happy, healthy pregnancy.
A video posted by Sia Cooper (@diaryofafitmommyofficial) on
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