A mom influencer’s late-night gym routine has sparked a heated debate online, raising questions about postpartum fitness, child safety and how mothers can make time for their own health while caring for a newborn
Angela Holm, a married mother of five, drew more than 2.2 million views after sharing a video of herself heading to an empty gym after 9 p.m. with her infant. Once inside, Holm strapped the baby to her chest as she exercised, including walking on a treadmill
The video quickly divided viewers. Some praised Holm for finding a way to stay active while caring for a newborn. Others worried that carrying an infant around treadmills, weights and other gym equipment could put the child at risk
“Holy s— this is so dangerous,” one commenter wrote. Another called the workout “unsafe and irresponsible,” while others questioned what could happen if Holm tripped or lost her balance
Those concerns aren’t limited to social media
Research involving Birmingham Children’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust examined treadmill-related injuries among 29 children, including some younger than 3. Injuries included burns and scarring
“Treadmills can pose a significant danger to children,” researchers warned, adding that such injuries are preventable
The National Independent Health Club Association has also cautioned parents about bringing babies into workout areas, pointing to hazards including weights, sharp edges, tripping risks and exercise machines
“There are a lot of safety concerns in a workout space to include tripping hazards, weights [and] sharp edges,” the organization notes
Still, Holm’s video resonated with mothers who know how challenging it can be to prioritize their own well-being after having a baby
“I had really bad postpartum and [the gym is] the only thing that helped me,” one supporter wrote. “Proud of you mama for doing what you need to do.”
Another simply encouraged her, “I think you’re doing AMAZING. Keep going!!!”
The debate highlights a balancing act familiar to many new moms. Physical activity can support overall wellness after childbirth, but returning to exercise safely matters, too. Recovery is different for every woman, and new mothers should follow guidance from their healthcare provider about when and how to resume physical activity
For Christian moms, there is also a helpful reminder here about stewardship. Caring for your body doesn’t have to mean pushing harder or doing more. It can mean moving when movement is helpful, resting when rest is needed and recognizing that both are legitimate ways to care for the body God has given you
And postpartum wellness doesn’t have to look impressive on social media. A walk outside, a few minutes of gentle movement or a workout completed when circumstances allow can all be meaningful
Holm’s viral video may have started an argument about one mom’s workout, but it has opened a much broader conversation: New mothers need opportunities to care for themselves, and finding ways to do that safely may be more important than how—or where—the workout happens
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