"She's like a baby, I'm like a cat. When we are happy we both get fat." "Life in a Nutshell" by the Barenaked Ladies.
People talk about the "freshman spread," that unfortunate 10 to 15 pound average college students gain in the first year of their studies away from home. Less well known is the "newlywed spread" which affects couples in the first year of marital bliss.
If being happy means gaining weight, you certainly don't want to have some tragic event happen to make you lose it. But what can you do when you are obviously happy, enjoying cooking and eating with your new husband, and generally loving the new life you're creating together?
Temptation is hard to resist, and there are so many books and weight control programs out there. I'm not a weight expert. I can only give you some recommendations to keep that beautiful figure he fell in love with...of course he fell in love with your personality, girl! But he loves your figure too, so keep that in mind while you read this article!
If you did some fun, physical-type activities while you were dating, now that you are married, remember to keep it up. If you didn't, it's time to incorporate them into your new marriage routine.
The trick to keeping up the physical activity you enjoyed during your courtship is to schedule it. Find a time that works for both of you. A few ideas: dancing, hiking, river-rafting, tennis, you get the idea.
Sign up for some dance lessons that you can attend weekly, even if you already know the moves. This keeps you dancing and on a schedule. Otherwise, if you just say you'll go dancing, it may or may not happen. The same holds with sports. Join a co-ed team, a Meetup group, take tennis lessons, or train for a half-marathon.
During your first year of marital bliss, you are probably experiencing a sexual peak, and that burns plenty of calories. Of course, you're not thinking about calories while you're in the middle of passion, but you may want to rethink the melted chocolate and other stuff that may be fun (and messy) but may add to your waistline. I'm just saying...
You may want to do some active things with just the girls. Zumba is a lot of fun. There are many variations and styles of Zumba, so check out a few different classes before you check it off your list. Yoga and Pilates work also. The important thing is that when you exercise with your husband or with a group of women, you are more likely to enjoy it and to keep it up.
You will avoid the "newlywed spread" and feel in great shape at the same time. Have fun!
