CONTROVERSIAL statements from a fitness instructor about new mothers being “fat” and “lazy” has sparked outrage among Tamworth mums.
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The statement came from Sydney-based trainer Allan Trinh, who told “lazy new mums” to “get off the couch and start exercising”.
The hard-line attitude provoked a swift backlash from local mothers, who were quick to point out that Mr Trinh had never given birth himself.
Local woman Frances Smith, who gave birth to five children and is a stepmother to three more, said rather than piling on pressure about physical appearance, people should be concerned with the mental wellbeing of new mothers – especially those who suffer postnatal depression.
“I think it’s uncalled for and definitely unfair,” Mrs Smith said.
“You’re told not to lift anything heavier than your newborn for six weeks after giving birth, especially if you’ve had a Caesarean.”
Barraba mother of seven Jenny Carroll said exercising was “easier said than done” after childbirth.
She said caring for several children, including a newborn, means being constantly on the go; getting children dressed, fed and ready for school, cleaning up after the whirlwind of the morning, grocery shopping and caring for a baby throughout the day and night.
“As a breastfeeding mother, it can take quite a number of hours to sit and feed your baby,” Mrs Carroll said.
“Not every mother can afford a personal trainer.”
Local Kangatrainer Natalie Deacon said exercise could help new mums, but comments like Trinh’s were unhelpful.
“After you have a newborn, exercise is a little more complicated,” Mrs Deacon said.
She said her new mum classes, which had doubled in size since beginning last year, were non-judgemental.