My Fitness Journey
First ever swim meet, summer 2000
My journey into fitness began early on at age 5 when I plunged into competitive swimming, a passion that would shape much of my life. From my local club swim team to competing at Ohio Northern University, swimming was my world until I “retired” after my second collegiate season. However, my athletic endeavors didn't end there. During middle and high school, I embraced track and cross country, using long-distance running to complement my swimming training. After retiring from swimming in college, I transitioned much of my time spent on cardio to running, culminating in a half marathon that marked a significant personal achievement.
Reflecting on those early years and even through most of college, I realized my focus was predominantly on cardio. Weightlifting seemed peripheral, something I dabbled in lightly during high school but dismissed as non-essential. It wasn't until college swimming that I began to appreciate the transformative power of weightlifting. Under the guidance of athletic trainers, I experienced notable improvements in strength and body composition, prompting me to incorporate weightlifting into my routine more often during off-seasons. I remember being a couple months into my freshman swimming season and realizing, oh my goodness, where did this muscle come from?
Despite the “newbie strength gains” I had found, the transition away from competitive swimming was a challenge that truly tested my fitness identity. Fear of weight gain led me to overexercise and experiment with various fitness modalities—from CrossFit and circuit training to distance running and sporadic returns to swimming. Despite my dedication, this period of exploration often resulted in burnout and frustration, compounded by injuries and fluctuating energy levels.
A pivotal shift occurred during a pharmacy internship when I lived with a friend deeply immersed in bodybuilding. Initially hesitant to leave my comfort zone of running and circuit workouts, I was soon captivated by the structured approach of bodybuilding-style weight training. This newfound focus on progressive overload and varied workouts provided me with a fresh perspective on fitness—one that I carried through the remainder of pharmacy school and residency. It became the base I have built upon as my fitness goals have evolved over time.
Post- pharmacy residency, with an eye toward my wedding, fat loss became the priority. Inspired by MindPump programs, my now-husband and I started on a shared fitness journey that balanced strength training with aesthetic goals. When I became pregnant with my first son, my focus shifted once more. Lifting weights became not just a way to change body composition, but a method to maintain strength and prepare my body for the changes ahead.
Throughout a smooth pregnancy and delivery, I attributed a lot of my positive experience to the foundation of strength I had built. Postpartum, I navigated the delicate balance of recovery and gradual return to lifting. Supported by careful modifications and medical clearance, I found joy in reclaiming my strength and surpassing pre-pregnancy milestones.
The combination of breastfeeding metabolism and dedicated lifting efforts left me feeling more comfortable and confident in my own skin than ever before. Pre-pregnancy, I would never have believed anyone that told me I could look and feel my best AFTER carrying a child (granted, I estimate it took 8-9 months post-partum to get to that point)!
Now, expecting my second child, I face new challenges and adjustments. Balancing workouts with career and the demands of caring for a toddler requires creativity and determination. Yet, I'm committed to maintaining a consistent fitness routine as much as possible, knowing firsthand the benefits it can bring to my pregnancy and recovery. With prayer and perseverance, I look forward to the journey ahead—nurturing my health, cherishing family moments, and gradually rebuilding my strength again post-delivery.
My fitness journey is a testament to resilience and adaptation, a continuous evolution shaped by passion, purpose, and the unwavering support of loved ones. As I navigate the highs and uncertainties of pregnancy, I am reminded that while some aspects of life are beyond our control, our commitment to wellness and perseverance can pave the way for a healthier, happier journey ahead.
26 weeks pregnant with baby #2!
