Meet Jess: Exercising post-partum - A new kind of strength
“Jessica Dakers started attending Strong as a Motha when her daughter, Harper was 3 months old. She continued attending the class until Harper turned one. Working with her over these 10 months I watched her strength sky rocket. She showed up to each class ready to learn and to work hard. Wasn’t always easy, certain weeks it was hard to find the motivation to show up, but Jessica knew she would always feel better after the workout and after seeing the other moms. Not only did she become a stronger individual, she became a stronger Mother and an amazing role model for her daughter.” - Anna Levy, Post-Natal Trainer + CrushCamp Coach
In a few sentences can you describe your experience with fitness prior to being pregnant:
In my younger days I was a ski racer and most of my life was either spent in the gym or on a ski hill. After retiring I found I really avoided the gym and mostly took barre and spin classes. Just prior to being pregnant I discovered my love of HIIT classes.
What was your experience with exercise during your pregnancy?
I tried to stay pretty active with barre and spin classes for as long as I could, but towards the end of my pregnancy yoga and walking was the extent of my exercise.
What has been the biggest challenge, if any, for you in regards to maintaining a fitness routine after you became a mom?
Honestly it is just finding the time to actually go. I would love to be able to go to a CrushCamp class everyday, but life just gets in the way sometimes. That is why I loved the Strong as a Motha class since I was able to bring Harper with me.
What has been the greatest benefit that Strong as a Motha has provided you?
After I had Harper, it was important for me to continue to work out as much as I could. So not only has this provided me with a place to get an amazing workout, but the community of moms that I have met has been truly amazing.
What goal(s) have you achieved since starting Strong as a Motha?
Getting back into shape was my main goal when I started, but I think I have surpassed that. I am definitely stronger than I was pre-pregnancy.
“I really think getting back into shape and feeling “normal” again after pregnancy was all due to the Strong as a Motha classes. Working out after pregnancy is intimidating. This class gave me a place to come where I could feel comfortable working out and not have to worry about hurting myself post pregnancy.”
What do you love the most about being a Strong Mother? My mom was a really good role model when it came to health and fitness. I hope to be the same for Harper. Maybe one day she will remember her mom getting her butt kicked by the skill mill and want to try for herself.
Favourite exercise? It’s really a love hate relationship, but any exercise on the skill mill.
What goal(s) have you achieved since starting Strong as a Motha? Getting back into shape was my main goal when I started, but I think I have surpassed that. I am definitely stronger than I was pre-pregnancy.
What do you love the most about being a Strong Mother? My mom was a really good role model when it came to health and fitness. I hope to be the same for Harper. Maybe one day she will remember her mom getting her butt kicked by the skill mill and want to try for herself.
Favourite exercise? It’s really a love hate relationship, but any exercise on the skill mill.