1) Brief bio about yourself. Your name, what you do etc.
My name is Tea Thome and I am a lifestyle and business coach focused on empowering women. Five years ago, I took the leap, quit my secure job and went on to pursue my passion for fitness and coaching. I absolutely adore the work that I do and could not see a better way to spend my time and energy than by making women feel beautiful, inside and out. I am married to the most amazing and supportive man and have two fur balls that own my heart.
2) How and when did you get into fitness? And what is your favorite type of exercise?12 years ago, after battling with my own weight for most of my adolescence, I got myself a gym membership and took the first step to bettering my life. The feeling that I gained from training was unlike anything I had experience in the past and I knew I had to pursue it further. After having my own transformation, I decided to get a job at a local gym and dedicate my spare time to helping other women feel the same. Although I was in school for Psychology, fitness was always on the side lines and brought something special out for me. I went on to compete in fitness shows for many years, gain numerous sponsorships and publications, grow my coaching business and brand and channel my life around living a healthy lifestyle.
3) What is your favorite type of exercise? And in what ways did/has being physically active helped you through your pregnancy?Anything glute related! I absolutely love training glutes and bonus, it’s been such a great addition to my pregnancy program keeping my back in great health and pain free! Deadlifts and hip thrusts are my fave!
4) How has pregnancy change/affect your fitness regime in each trimester (if it did)In the first trimester, I was more tired than anything so training was all about survival. I made sure to keep moving when I could but also listen to my body and take breaks as I needed. The second trimester was great for me, full of energy and ability to keep most of my training the same. I did lower the weights and intensity overall and focus loads of energy on a strong core and glutes. The third trimester proved to be a bit more difficult to work with the ever-evolving belly but my energy has (luckily) remained so training persists. However, it’s only 3 times a week of weights instead of 6 and 3 days of moderate cardio.
5) In what ways did/has being physically active helped you through your pregnancy?I think being active has played a HUGE role in my pregnancy. It has helped with maintaining a positive mind set, given me the ability to keep going through tough days, kept me mentally sane and helped alleviate most pains that come with pregnancy. Overall, I believe maintaining a fit lifestyle is the biggest reason I have had such a positive experience during my pregnancy.
6) What fitness advice would you give to someone who is pregnant or planning to get pregnant?I would say keep being you! Do the things that make you feel good and help you keep a piece of your identity and happiness. Fitness during pregnancy is not only amazing for the mama but also the baby. It may be tough to get moving on the slow days but you will always feel better, mentally and physically, that you did something active for you and baby. Do what feels good and feels right, even the smallest effort matters. Keep moving, eat to nourish your baby and your body and keep a positive attitude towards this amazing new life transition.