By Rachel Stinchcomb
My Name is Rachel Stinchcomb and I am a first-grade teacher at High Point Elementary School. I have been a part of Wreck Room for a little over 2 years now! I have a 10-month-old baby boy named Ethan and he has brought so much love and joy into our lives.
I worked out all throughout my pregnancy and getting to the gym was no problem! Then our little boy arrived, and he became our number one priority. Adjusting to parenthood is very challenging and yet so rewarding. I was always meant to be a Mom and I am loving every minute of it! Taking on my new role as a mother definitely has made our schedules very hectic! Between my work schedule and my husband’s crazy work schedule, getting to the gym was a new challenge! There were many adjustments to our life and work that we made to continue did to keep working out consistently. First, our families have been extremely helpful when we need help with Ethan. We are so lucky that they are near by. I truly now understand the saying “It takes a village to raise a child.” Also, my husband and I take turns planning when we can go to the gym around our work schedules. Sometimes we even take Ethan to the gym with us! The community at Wreck Room is full of amazing people that adore Ethan. Someone is always around for some Ethan time while we get in a quick workout. We are finding that happy balance between our jobs, the gym and spending quality time with our son. Sticking with the gym is not something that I only do for myself, but I do for Ethan as well. Setting a good example for my son is very important to me. I want him to grow up knowing that it is important to take care of yourself, mentally and physically.
My nutrition hasn’t suffered from this. I am definitely a planner. And once I fully understood what I needed to be eating every day to make the best of my workouts, I planned for it. I meal prep every week which is extremely beneficial with our busy schedules.
My biggest supporter would be my husband, Josh. He is always pushing me to take time for myself and he holds me accountable for sticking to my diet. We both enjoy the gym and setting goals to work towards.
I don’t see our busy life slowing down anytime soon! If at all, it might get a little busier once baby #2 joins. BUT that is not any time soon! We honestly take it day by day.
My advice for anyone with a similar hectic schedule, is just make it work. If you truly want something bad enough, you will find a way to make it work. Recently, I have been going to the 5:30 AM classes because that is what works for me as of now!
