AIBU to want to get my perfect body before TTC

[User090922]

I'm 30. Been into my health and fitness for the past few years. Gone from being overweight to being in good health and shape now, but just looking to tone up and get those flat abs before before I TTC as I heard it's easier to get back into shape post-pregnancy if you were already in shape before.

I'd say I'm about a few months away from achieving that perfect toned body.

Anyone else feel the same?
AIBU?

I would put your effort into deep core strength (not pretty abs) and pelvic floor. I looked ‘in great shape’ within months of birth (back in pre-baby jeans, visible waist). My internal organs were literally bulging out of my fanny because of pelvic floor damage. Aesthetics are irrelevant - go for function every time!

Even so, by the time he was 2 I was running 20 milers in the hills and fitter/stronger than I ever was before. This is not your last chance. Do it if it’s bringing you joy but don’t feel pressure to perfect your body before you ttc.

I wouldn't bother. I:d spend the effort on valuing other things about yourself instead. Your body may end up trashed and you will have a lot less time afterwards. Mentally prepare yourself.

But yes as above definitely work on your pelvic floor

What @Verbena87 said.

get fit fine. Core muscles and pelvic floor are more important. Glad I worked a lot on them before I got pregnant. No issues I’m either department now. Wrecked generally otherwise though.

I’m not really sure how anyone could say YABU on this- of course it’s a good idea to be as fit and healthy as you can before TTC. Yoga and Pilates on top of any other exercise are your friend to keep your core strong.

It is SO much easier to lose weight and get back in shape if you start off in a good place. Good luck on your TTC journey.

For me, being able to lose the weight and regain fitness quicker with my 3rd baby made such a difference to my mental health, this was definitely due to being a lot fitter when I got pregnant.

Currently 33 weeks pregnant and ‘all baby’. I was v fit and toned pre pregnancy, six pack, etc but it’s had a bit of a detrimental affect as my stomach is so tight and uncomfortable and my obstetrician told me it’s because I have a v muscular stomach. Apparently unfit people stretch out more and don’t suffer half as much as people like me. I’m so uncomfortable I haven’t been able to work out for months! I can do some yoga but otherwise, fitness has gone. However, despite this I’m still v toned so the years of training have stood me in good stead for this period of enforced inertia.

Yes I think great idea to be as fit and healthy as you can before pregnancy, it can be very hard! Ofc there are the lucky ones who sail through it all but for the majority it can be painful and strenuous on the body.
Focusing on your strength and cardiovascular fitness rather than your body appearance might be a better way of looking at it? Nothing wrong AT ALL with training for appearance but pregnancy, birth and post partum can be rough on our bodies and if you are heavily focused on your body’s appearance rather than it’s strength and health then you could - I’m saying COULD - struggle if it doesn’t look the same way after.

good luck with TTC!

No point, as you'll then be sad to lose it- I'd wait till after

Pelvic floor!!!!!!!!!

The rest is entirely up to you from an aesthetic point of view. I was way older than you when I conceived and a size 8. I’m in my forties now - 6 years later and size 12/14 and cannot lose it! I don’t do much now, personal circs. I think what you do after and age make a huge difference. You’ll be fine!

Do it. I upped my fitness and general condition before we conceived and l think it was a smart move.

I worked out quite a bit pre-pregnancy. I never had the biggest bump (midwife commented I had strong ab muscles) and after baby my tummy went down quite quickly. So go for it!

Yes yes to strengthening your core. I’m terribly unfit but I do do regular Pilates and yoga. While I was in labour the midwife complimented me on my stomach muscles 😄 and I was straight back to normal within a couple of weeks. My Pilates instructor checked my muscles for separation when I started going to classes again and she said there was none whatsoever. It makes a huge difference.