getting back on track

Question
Well to tell you about myself first...I'm 26, married, and a mom to a 16 month old.  I'm like many others when it comes to wanting to lose the baby fat and get back to where I used to be.  I took advantage of the body I had before is what I believe.  I was a size 6-8(US) to now a 14-16(US).  And the thing was, i wasn't eating horribly, just didn't exercise, and I think it was like my body going into shock b/c if I don't exercise I gaiiiin weight.  I'm like the off one in family where I must work out or my weight fluctuates up and down.  I really want to lose 50 lbs, but after talking to a trainer it's more like 40lbs.  I know how to eat right, I'm just confused on how to get like the right schedule for working out and going to classes(like step or kickboxing). I guess i have become really paranoid about my body to point where I do not like being with others at the gym, b/c somehow I've put it in my mind that they're all staring at me and pointing and laughing at me.  i was never this self conscious before.  I've even noticed how I'm standoffish to my husband.  I want to bring up my self esteem, and be healthy again. I want to do it for my family, but most importantly for myself who I've avoided the past 2 years.  I would appreciate any advice you can give. thank you for your time!

Answer
HI Vee,

Baby fat is the hardest thing to lose. If you've still breastfeeding, keep going on as you burn a whole load of calories. If you're not,

-don't finish up your toddler's food.
-don't eat close to bed time, give yourself at least 3 hours to digest.
-I would definitely recommend Belly Dancing, it's a great way to lose weight around the middle, and you may possible feel more comfortable with other women in the same room compared to being in a unisex gym.
-Power-Pramming. Use the pram as your resistance. Walk fast and brisk with toddler as the weight. Find routes that go up hill. A different route everyday. This worked fabulous for me as I can fit it in my schedule easily. If you need more weight, carry more baby food, nappies, etc in your changing bag.
-Try and squeeze sleep in, have a nap when your toddler has a nap, tired people snack more and eat more.
-If your toddler is old enough, give him piggy-back rides while you run in the park. Great Cardio!
-When going to the supermarket, park as far away as possible and walk it or piggy back ride your toddler.

A little bit of imagination is all you need.
You will find you feel great after a bout of piggy-back rides and going zoom-zoom with the toddler in the pram. Your husband will notice it too!

I do hope this helps! Good Luck!

Love, Mrs. Jansz

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