I gave birth to two children 18 months apart but can't lose the "baby fat" and need to be taped. Any suggestions?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 11:24:21 -0500

Female related question about postpartum recovery and then the military career...I am a physically fit Soldier, however, I gave birth to two children 18 months apart. I have done everything to loose the "baby fat" from my torso area, however, nothing will make it go away. Trying to seek surgical support from the military is looking like it's not an option. I'm in great shape but having to get taped because of this...it's a hurdle that I need to jump over. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance! =)

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 11:41 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 11:41:53 -0500

Have you tried detoxing and belly cleansers? I have three children, although my last pregnancy I was my heaviest...220lbs. I am now back to 145 and my youngest is 1. I done the cleansers and cardio (elliptical mainly because it works your abs without knowing it. I also did a lot of planking, crunches, sit ups, squats.

Response by CPT Pedro Meza made Mar 8 at 2016 1:02 PM

CPT Pedro Meza — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 13:02:13 -0500

If you are passing the PFT with good scores, I would talk to your First Sergeant (Chain of Command) and see if a waiver can be requested addressing the facts, 1: you have good PT scores. 2: you have "baby fat".

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 1:51 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 13:51:15 -0500

Run watch what you are eating and pt

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 3:19 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 15:19:25 -0500

The Army created the Post Partum PT (PPPT) for this reason.

There are fantastic resources (including the PPPT handbook) online, even if your unit does not have a PPPT program leader.

A Google search will yield the MEDCOM or HPRC website.

Most army bases will have a registered dietician to help answer questions and guide you.

Losing general weight: Calories in must be less than calories burned daily. The one detail often overlooked is tracking those calories consumed.

As always, talk to your doctor before trying any new exercise/diet.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 3:27 PM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 15:27:56 -0500

As someone who has struggled with weight and losing belly fat, I can tell you that abs are made in the kitchen. From my experience what works is a balance of low glycemic index carbs, lean proteins, and veggies. Also no soda or artificial sweeteners. Sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes, whole grains, and sprouted grain bread. With being said, exercise also goes a long way to helping. High intensity cardio, and weight training. Muscle weighs more than fat, so also be aware of that if doing weight training. It can be done.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 4:03 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 16:03:55 -0500

I really appreciate this question as it truly is a concern for women returning to duty. I had two children 21 months apart (my youngest is 20 months now). I'm sure you have heard it all and are trying it all! More power to you!! Stay motivated!! Stay dedicated!! I went from 175 during pregnancy to 131 at my 6 month APFT through INTENSE physical training and calorie control. I did 25-30 min of HARD cardio (running or elliptical) five days a week (I would do 60/120 sprints and stadium stairs on Wed; 4 mile run on Fri). I did push ups and sit up's every day (pushups three sets of 20; situps 45/35/25). I would do weightlifting (upper body-M/W/F; lower body- T/Th).
I increased my protein and water intake, decreased overall carb intake, lots of fruits and vegetables.
I'm sure this isn't new information and I know you are working hard and doing what you need to do. The struggle is real!! We are all here rooting you on!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2016 5:33 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 17:33:22 -0500

I highly recommend visiting an Army Wellness Center if it's available to you. Check your diet and ensure you are eating enough to not retain all energy as fat. I'm also a personal trainer :)

Response by SGT David Townsend made Mar 16 at 2016 6:48 PM

SGT David Townsend — Wed, 16 Mar 2016 18:48:58 -0400

My wife had the same issue. She had to create a very strict diet. Low fat, no processed sugars. Plenty of exercise.

Response by SGT Marika Waiters made Apr 7 at 2016 2:24 PM

SGT Marika Waiters — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 14:24:08 -0400

I had kids 18 months apart as well. It is difficult. Thankfully I was out of the military by then. However, I always lifted weights. It became an "addiction" in high school. Weight lifting is really the only "exercise" which continues to burn fat AFTER you're done. I managed to maintain my "fighting weight" of 120 for about 30 yrs, when I got too sick to lift anymore. I will continue to stand by it. Find a good weight lifting buddy, and hit the gym. Once you see your gains, you'll be addicted.