Lea-Ann Ellison can squat, thrust and bench.
And she can also handle a torrent of online criticism.
The 35-year old has come under major fire for posting photos to Facebook of her lifting weights and conducting a CrossFit routine in the gym… while eight-and-half-months pregnant.
“8 months pregnant with baby number 3 and CrossFit has been my sanity,” Ellison captioned the image.
“I have been CrossFitting for 2 1/2 years and … strongly believe that pregnancy is not an illness, but a time to relish in your body’s capabilities to kick ass.”
Many Facebook users do not share this sentiment, however.
The picture has been the subject over over 1,600 Comments, with many taking a very negative stance toward Ellison.
“If anything happens to your baby due to your stupidity, I hope you’ll be able to handle your guilt,” writes one critic. “Pregnancy is NOT the time to be taking stupid risks.”
Ellison says she’s shocked over the controversy, but isn’t backing down.
“Thank you to all who posted and continue to post positive, supportive comments regarding my photo,” she posted. “I had NO IDEA what a stir this would create.”
“It makes me feel proud and loved and STRONGER!!!!”
While doctors around the world share certain opinions regarding pregnancy risks (no scuba diving, no flying in the third trimester), there is no consensus regarding the dangers of exercise.
In fact, many physicians say that if one works out regularly prior to getting pregnant, one can safely continue this same regimen up until giving birth.
(They also pray that Kim Kardashian does not have another child. Just kidding.)
Where do YOU stand, THGers? Comment below, and vote in our survey: What do you think of a very pregnant woman engaging in CrossFit?