This Third-Trimester CrossFit Coach Believes in Strength

Janessa is a Crossfit Coach at CrossFit Pallas in Ithaca, NY. She is now in her third trimester of pregnancy and still very dedicated to her training.

"Strength Is Beauty"

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"Attending CrossFit classes and working with knowledgable coaches helped me lose over 40 pounds, conquer depression and migraines, and become a more focused and happy mother, wife, family member, and friend. Strength - mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical strength - is beautiful."

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"As cliche as it may sound, CrossFit changed my world and my general outlook on life, not to mention the immense, positive impact these changes have had on my family. As a mother, wife, friend, coach, and teacher, I've learned to honor, embrace, and celebrate throughout life's many phases, including the third trimester of pregnancy!"

Did You Ever Consider Stopping CrossFit For Pregnancy?

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"Quitting CrossFit was never an option. By design, CrossFit is universally scalable - perfect for women throughout pregnancy and the postpartum months."

Have You Been Criticized for Continuing to Train?

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"As a pregnant crossfitter and coach, I've been lucky to receive only enthusiastic, positive reactions."

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"Mostly, People are surprised to learn that I still work out and continue to train 4-5 times per week."

What Advice Do You Have For Women Who Would Like To Continue CrossFit Through Their Pregnancy?

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"Absolutely continue CrossFit during pregnancy. Maintain a positive mindset, especially during the highs and lows throughout each trimester. Your training will look different, but stay active. Your mind, body, and most importantly, your baby will benefit from a continued active and healthy lifestyle."

What's It Like CrossFitting While Pregnant?

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"Your workout is going to change. But, the community of friends, athletes, and coaches at the CrossFit gym are endlessly supportive and encouraging of each other, including myself. We're lucky to have this incredible place."

Why Hire a Photographer?

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"CrossFit women are fierce, dynamic, and strong in every sense of the word. I wanted a maternity session to focus on that: on what the female body is capable of and how our physical shells change and adapt throughout the varying phases of life, including pregnancy and childbirth. I wanted my maternity photos to focus on the pure beauty of life, positivity, and preparing for the unknown."

What Are Your Plans For When The Baby Comes?

Chelsea Fausel - Fausel Imagery / Via Facebook: fauselimagery

"I do plan to take a few weeks off, and will slowly and gradually return to a regular schedule of training, in whatever for that takes. When I do return, I'll continue to listen to my body, consult with coaches, work with my chiropractor and midwife, and get acquainted with working through the fourth trimester again - this time as a crossfitting mom!"