Mom Who Trained Throughout Pregnancy Leaves Internet in Awe: ‘Incredible’

A mom continued working out throughout her pregnancy, leaving the internet stunned by her results.

Izabela Zukovic Simonsson (@izabelkic), 31, a marketing manager, showcased her continued intense exercise regime whilst she was expecting, in a TikTok video which garnered 394,000 likes and 2.6 million views.

Expectant mothers are often encouraged to slow down and avoid physical exertion, but Simonsson, from Denmark, decided to take a different path.

“Many of my family members were worried and didn’t see the point of me training,” she shared. “In European culture, it’s very common to take it easy, not carry anything heavy. It is almost like many people have this vision if you are pregnant, you are ‘sick’ and should take extra care of yourself.”

But for Simonsson, the key to a healthy pregnancy was continuing training in the gym. “For me, a healthy mom equals a healthy baby. Then it is up to you how to define what makes you feel healthy and what is wellbeing for you,” she said.

Simonsson proudly showcased her pregnancy workout routine online. The clip shows her performing weight-lifting exercises and working up a sweat on the stairclimber, all while sporting a beautifully defined baby bump. Fast forward to two months postpartum, and then five months later, Simonsson reveals her incredibly toned physique—proof that her hard work paid off.

“I stuck to the same exercises I did before I got pregnant, including compound weightlifting, yoga, and HIIT,” she explained. “My body feels comfortable with these exercises due to muscle memory since I’ve been doing these workouts for many years.”

However, Simonsson did listen to her body’s cues. She stopped running early in her pregnancy when it became uncomfortable and reduced the amount of weight she lifted after her first trimester.

For moms-to-be who are considering working out during pregnancy, Simonsson offers some sage advice: listen to your body but don’t be afraid to stay active. “Creating life inside of you is hard enough—your energy levels might be low, but you’ll thank yourself during the postpartum recovery journey. Your body will heal faster, and you’ll feel better,” she emphasized.

Regular exercise during pregnancy isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about supporting overall well-being for both mom and baby.

According to WebMD, moderate exercise can help with a range of pregnancy-related challenges. It can ease back pain, which is common as the body adjusts to carrying extra weight, and improve sleep by reducing anxiety and discomfort.

It advises that pregnant women should avoid high-risk activities, such as contact sports or exercises that involve a high risk of falling, and should always consult with their healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine.

You can continue exercising at your usual level during pregnancy as long as you’re comfortable and have your doctor’s approval. Low-impact aerobics are preferred over high-impact ones, and your heart rate should not exceed 140 beats per minute.

Competitive athletes should follow their obstetrician’s guidance. If you’re new to regular exercise, it’s safe to start a program during pregnancy after consulting with your doctor.

Simonsson insists that even short workouts can make a big difference: “A workout can take 30-45 minutes—it doesn’t have to be longer—and you’ll still reap the benefits. Many women think of working out as a big project, but you can easily do it at home on a mat or outside in the garden.”

On June 6, 2023, Simonsson gave birth to a healthy baby girl named Gabriela and is now expecting her second child in February 2025.

Thanks to her consistent workout routine, she lost her pregnancy weight within three weeks and was back to exercising by the eighth week. “[My] birth and my body felt great,” she said. “It didn’t make labor easier—I had an unmedicated water birth—but mentally, I was able to sustain it.”

Her story has inspired many, but it has also sparked curiosity and concern among her followers. “That’s amazing, but I’m worried about heavy lifting,” one viewer commented.

“You don’t need to lift heavy,” Simonsson responded. “As long as you have the right technique, there’s nothing to worry about. But lifting weights is, in my opinion, the best workout.”

“This is incredible,” said Carly.

Other expectant moms chimed in with their experiences. “Love this! But how was your diet? My healthy eating habits flew out the window as soon as I got pregnant,” wrote Gigi.

Another commenter, Erica, admitted: “You’re amazing for this! I’m 23 weeks pregnant and tired after walking.”