Octomom Nadya Suleman, who gave birth to the first set of surviving octuplets back in 2009, shared her inspiring fitness journey in a now-viral Instagram post. The 47-year-old mom has six older children in addition to her octuplets, but this mom of 14 hasn’t let that slow her down. She is totally ripped!
Nadya shared that she had several severe injuries after her last pregnancy, including herniated discs and a torn abdominal cavity. Nadya said the more active she is, the less pain she has and encouraged parents to “lead by example.” Social media users applauded the mother for her dedication to herself and her kids and called her an amazing woman and mother.
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Nadya shared that working out keeps her sane, strong, and healthy.
The mother, who gave birth to eight children at once, and already had six older children in tow, is an inspiration and a positive influence and role model to many women and mothers for obvious reasons, but her insightful and persuasive post about fitness as a mom in her 40s certainly didn’t hurt her fanbase either.
Nadya shared that weightlifting has become a bigger priority for her since giving birth to her octuplets and a way of managing stress. She wrote: “I’ve been asked for years how I stay physically strong and healthy (and mentally sane ), in spite of my stressful, busy lifestyle with such a big family. Lifting weights has been my method of constructively channeling stress, consistently, for over 30 years. Weight training has become even more of a priority subsequent to birthing octuplets, to maintain my strength and mobility alone.”
Besides helping her own physical and mental health and well-being, her active lifestyle has had a positive impact on her kids as well. She says her oldest son now trains with her in the gym.
“Ironically, my oldest son Eli, who has been training consistently for three years, has surpassed what I’ve achieved in 30, and loves mocking me at the gym lol. He has encouraged me however, to lift heavier, using proper technique, which has improved my strength and performance,” Nadya shared in her post.
She had multiple pregnancy complications that inspired her fitness journey.
Nadya shared that she had several health complications as a result of her last pregnancy. She wrote, “As a repercussion of the pregnancy, I sustained three more herniated discs (had one herniated disc from a work related injury decades ago); bilateral sciatica; damaged sacrum and peripheral neuropathy (and a torn abdominal cavity) to top it off.” Though it would seem counterintuitive, she shared that being active helps with managing her pain.
“Such disabilities would render me incapacitated if I were to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Though it seems counterintuitive, the more active I am, the less pain I experience. Several days without weight training exacerbates my already excruciating back pain and near immobility,” Nadya wrote.
According to research done by Utah State University, physical activity can help reduce chronic pain through building muscle, reducing fatigue, and reducing inflammation. But if you have a serious injury, you should consult your doctor before undertaking any strenuous activity.
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‘Lead by example’ she told parents in an inspiring caption.
The mom of 14 kids encouraged other busy parents to not compare their journeys and to make time for themselves and not feel guilt about it. “To my fellow busy parents out there…never compare yourself to anyone else! Your current fitness level and fitness journey is unique to you, so only strive to be the best version of yourself. Focus on setting personal goals and aim to achieve them, progressing at your own pace. Lead by example so your children learn to prioritize physical activity, and encourage them to workout with you,” she wrote.
She also shared that she would not physically and mentally be able to handle parenting were it not for the positive benefits and energy working out gives her. “Do not feel guilty for taking time to renew and recharge. Your family will benefit immensely when you take care of your mind and body, as you will have more positive energy to give. I would not have the mental or physical wherewithal to do what I do if it were not for working out!” she explained.
Social media users praised the mom for her dedication.
Many social media users and fellow parents were cheering Nadya on in the comments section of her motivational Instagram post.
“Good for you and such an amazing example for your children!" commented one person. "You look amazing, hard work pays off!”
Another wrote: “Amazing! Keep it up!! That is loving yourself and your kids!!” wrote another.
“You are a great inspiration to all of us," wrote someone else. "You're so busy and still make time to take care of yourself. Keep up the good work!!”
"I remember all the crap folks gave you and you just kept doing your thang!" another person commented. "You are one BLESSED and BAD A– MOMMA! As someone with MS, I adopted the philosophy That if i dont keep moving I won't be moving! It’s great to see you exercising to manage pain. You’re inspiring!”
*Disclaimer: The advice on CafeMom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
