Mom on First Run After Giving Birth, Makes Sudden Realization: 'Humbling'

In a hilarious realization, a woman has shared the moment she learned her running speed was an illusion.

Shantel Geringer, 31, told Newsweek that she put on her trainers and went running five weeks after giving birth to her third child, who is now three months old. She was accompanied by her younger brother who also features in the video.

Racking up 2.5 million views at the time of writing, Geringer, from Indiana, can be seen panting as she jogs. The camera then flips to her siblings, who can be seen walking next to her.

"I was working hard and I looked over and noticed my brother was walking," she told Newsweek. "I was going so slow he couldn't even jog at that pace."

So far, the video captioned "But I felt fast" has received more than 507,000 likes.

Exercising after a baby isn't easy as the body changes so much, but it can be beneficial when done safely. Mayo Clinic states that women who have had an "uncomplicated pregnancy and vaginal birth" can exercise as soon as they feel ready. But moms who have had a c-section or a complicated birth must seek professional advice before starting an exercise program. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends spreading out at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity for healthy women after pregnancy.

Regular exercise after pregnancy can promote weight loss, and strengthen and tone abdominal muscles. Previously, Newsweek spoke to a woman who praised Pilates for helping her lose her 'mom pouch'.

Alongside the physical benefits, exercising can also reduce symptoms of postpartum depression, relieve stress, and promote better sleep.

Geringer told Newsweek: "After each kid, I always set a goal to motivate me to move my body and get back into my routine.

"For my third child, I signed up for a 5K run in August so I knew I needed to start building up slowly.

"That first run wasn't fast or pretty but I did it."

Since sharing the clip on July 3, Geringer has received a sea of support.

One user said: "No matter how bad you think you're doing, it's better than doing nothing at all."

"Movement is movement love! You're doing amazing," praised another.

A third commenter couldn't help but laugh: "He's not even speed walking. It's just a steady pace."

"He is actively trying to go slower," Geringer commented.

A fourth user said: "What a good brother. Always there for you.....humbling your a** lol."

Exercising while pregnant can also help new moms feel more confident after giving birth, according to one woman who shared her story with Newsweek.

If you have a family dilemma, let us know via [email protected]. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured on Newsweek.