Motivational Mom of the Month - Mary Bernardo

Happy February! Does anyone else feel like January is the loooongest month ever? We've had some SUPER cold days lately but one thing that warms our hearts...our Mamas!

Join me today in getting to know one of our FIT4BABY instructors, Mary Bernardo!

How did you find FIT4MOM Richmond and how long have you been a part of our village?

I found Fit4Mom when I was pregnant with my first daughter. I wanted to stay active but found that making modifications in other, not so pregnancy friendly, group classes was frustrating. I started with Fit4Baby in Summer 2019 and continued through the end of my pregnancy. After my daughter was born, I attended Stroller Strides and progressed to Boost classes! It was a perfect progression for each stage of motherhood.

What do you love most about being part of this community?

The Fit4Mom community is the best! I struggled with PPD after my daughter was born (in the middle of a pandemic) and having this community meant so much to me. It gave me motivation to get out of the house even when things were scary. I felt accepted, seen, and "normal" in a time where everything felt abnormal. This community has been a constant source of positivity, support, and FUN! I always leave classes smiling.

Who are you a mom to?

Eleanor (2) and expecting baby girl #2 June 1, 2022!

What is your favorite thing about being a mom?

Having an excuse to play, dance, and act like a kid again. Also getting to relearn simple things through Eleanor's experiences.

Would you rather fight one horse-sized duck or one hundred duck-sized horses?

Definitely just one horse-sized duck. I am not a fan of flocks of anything, especially ducks and horses.

How do you stay fit when you're not working out with FIT4MOM?

Lots of walking and the occasional barre or yoga class.

How do you practice self-care?

Taking time each day for myself to be active, read, listen to podcasts, or watch my favorite shows. The occasional girls night or mani/pedi always makes me feel like myself too.

Where did you grow up and how did you end up in Richmond?

I grew up in Roanoke, VA. In 2011, I moved to Richmond with my husband to apply for the Physical Therapy program at VCU. We love it here and don't plan on leaving anytime soon.

How did becoming a mother change you?

It has changed me in so many ways! I think it has made me more patient, as my patience is always being tested, and more decisive/protective, because I'm not just looking out for myself anymore.

What is the last great book or television series you've read/watched?

I just finished The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet, so good!! And currently catching up on the latest season of Ozark on Netflix.

How did you meet your husband?

We met in high school through mutual friends. Started dating when I was 16, and we have grown so much together since then!

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always said "a mom" when I was little. I also wanted to work in the medical field. Both have come true!

If your five-year-old self suddenly found themselves inhabiting your current body, what would she do first?

I would probably go on a huge shopping spree and eat lots of ice cream! The same thing I would do right now if there wasn't a responsible adult in my head reminding me of the consequences / reality.

Mary, I LOVE how this community helped you in the best kind of ways during the worst kind of times. There is always so much uncertainty with your first baby and then to be doing all of that during a pandemic - so tough!

I also love a good high school sweetheart love story! We're glad you found your way to Richmond, into our Village and onto our team! Our FIT4BABY Mamas are so lucky to experience that phase of motherhood right along side you :)

- megan