They Won't Be Calling Me Flipper

I started a water aerobics class this week.

I felt like Sha.mu in my black maternity bathing suit. Sha.mu with a skirt, that is.

I got a bathing suit from a generous friend, in a box of lots of other maternity hand-me-downs. I didn't think that I would ever have the nerve to be seen in public in a bathing suit pregnant, so I wasn't that concerned what the suit looked like. But as the weight has continued to add up and the cellulite continues to pile on, I am interested in at least somewhat keeping in shape.

Following the bleeding incident, however, my OB has forbidden all forms of exercise that could cause any impact or strain - even a gentle session on the elliptical is not a great idea right now. I am on my feet a lot for work, so he just doesn't think it's a great idea to add in any extra standing time. His suggestion was water aerobics.

We had just joined a gym with a really nice saltwater/freshwater pool and they happen to have classes everyday. I also have a girlfriend recovering from surgery who was also advised to take such a class. We decided to brave the waters together.

I have taken (and enjoyed) group exercise classes before. I like the social pressure of having to finish what I started. It's too easy if I am working out by myself to just quit if I get tired. On the other hand, one time I tried a spinning class and nearly died, but wouldn't walk out because I didn't want to be embarrassed. I was so sore the next day that I could barely get in and out of my car. I digress. . .

So, I hadn't even tried on this suit before Wednesday morning's class. It actually didn't fit too badly, but the skirt makes me feel about 80 (which happens to be the average age of my fellow classmates). So, there I was, flopping around in the water, trying to learn the moves and follow along, with this skirt splashing me in the face.

I actually enjoyed the class and the belly was a big hit with the grandmas and grandpas in the pool. My friend liked it, too. Although I wasn't exhausted after the session, I did feel as if I had gotten a light workout without the strain.

So, I am going out to get a bathing suit this weekend. Without a skirt. And not black. It may be slimming, but strangely enough, Sha.mu doesn't look too skinny. And neither do I.

The Belly at 26 (27 tomorrow) weeks!