To Feminist, Minority N.C.I.S.: The Postpartum PRT & Two Percent Terrorist-Signaling

I had an African-American nurse at Tripler tell me she had two young children, ran five miles per day, and showed me her six-pack abs. At the time, I had just given birth, still looked like I was nine months pregnant for two months, and knew I had a limited amount of time to get back into shape for the PRT. That's the physical readiness test.

I was breastfeeding my son, and he spent most of his time attached to me, except for a brief time under a UV lamp for slight jaundice and his circumcision. Too much stress, and physical activity, post-partum, can cause heavier postpartum bleeding and slow recovery.

I definitely recommend that all postpartum mothers avoid the method I chose, and get a medical waiver for one year, postpartum, from the physical readiness tests. Post C-section, I recommend a two year medical waiver, from any PRT, to fully recover from surgery, and gradually work towards your physical readiness test goals.

Although I had 26 post-episiotomy stitches, I (stupidly) started doing modified push-ups, sit-ups upon discharge from TAMC. Running was impossible for five months. Later, I tried bench pressing, flutter kicks, rowing machines, and later on, slow jogging.

The postpartum PRT (approximately seven months post-delivery) was a success. I kept remembering what my nurse told me, as inspiration that I could perform well on my PRT. I probably scored outstanding, but my situp counting partner decided not to count for me, as others around me cheated on their PRT.

I ended up two points away from an Outstanding, an Excellent score, but was just relieved to pass that PRT. It was in Hawaii that I fell in love with regular running, as a form of meditation, to music, and stress management. In running, there needs to be manageable goals.

Nobody runs five miles per day automatically. It has to start with walking, then, uphill hiking, and gradually, run/walking. For cardio endurance, and leg muscle fatigue, post-running at high altitude, I found proper hydration, eating three bananas per day, along with 3,000 healthy calories, mercury-free salmon oil, Stress B Complex with C, Gentle Iron, Garlicin, papain, bromelain, brewer's yeast capsules, natural vitamin E oil, horse chestnut extract were effective for me.

***However, I don't recommend that for postpartum and/or breastfeeding mothers, as it can cause more postnatal bloodloss. Always consult a medical doctor before taking any supplements or working out, especially postpartum.***

Postpartum nutrition should include boosting your immunity, stabilizing your blood sugars, for energy, eating plenty of whole grains, not crash dieting, and striving to be healthy, with a focus on compassion towards yourself.