Maria Kang, superfit mom, asks why you’re not superfit too: ‘What’s your excuse?’

Maria Kang

By now, you may have heard about the controversy swirling around Maria Kang, mother of three and fitness enthusiast. She posted this year-old photo on her Facebook account, and all hell broke loose. The picture itself — of Maria with her three toddler-aged sons — is fine. Her body looks tight as hell, and the kids look happy. The caption on the photo (“What’s your excuse?“) is another issue altogether. If you visit Maria’s Facebook page, you’ll see that people are not happy with her “fat shaming” attitude at all.

Maria is totally getting what she wants out of this media frenzy. She runs a fitness non-profit — although I do suspect she’s getting something monetary out of her endeavors. She’s loving how people are going berzerk over this photo. Maria issued an “apology,” but she isn’t apologizing for what she said. She’s sorry that you took it “in such a negative way.” I will concede that she didn’t make anyone look at her photo, and we don’t have to react to it. The point is that she wants us to react to it. That’s why she put that pompous caption out there. Maria acts like she is so ZOMG inspirational that we should all aspire to be exactly like her. If we don’t bury her in praises and thank yous, then … what’s our excuse?

Maria Kang

Maria Kang

I’ve been getting an influx of new followers, emails and comments (on my profile pic) recently. Some saying I’m a bully, I’m fat-shaming and I need to apologize for the hurt I’ve caused women. I get it. SO here’s my First and Final Apology:

I’m sorry you took an image and resonated with it in such a negative way. I won’t go into details that I struggled with my genetics, had an eating disorder, work full time owning two business’, have no nanny, am not naturally skinny and do not work as a personal trainer. I won’t even mention how I didn’t give into cravings for ice cream, french fries or chocolate while pregnant or use my growing belly as an excuse to be inactive.

What I WILL say is this. What you interpret is not MY fault. It’s Yours. The first step in owning your life, your body and your destiny is to OWN the thoughts that come out of your own head. I didn’t create them. You created them. So if you want to continue ‘hating’ this image, get used to hating many other things for the rest of your life. You can either blame, complain or obtain a new level of thought by challenging the negative words that come out of your own brain.

With that said, obesity and those who struggle with health-related diseases is literally a ‘bigger’ issue than this photo. Maybe it’s time we stop tip-toeing around people’s feelings and get to the point.

So What’s Your Excuse?

[From Maria Kang on Facebook]

Sigh. This chick.

I made the mistake of scrolling through her Facebook page. When I got to a passage that started with “When I’m not excelling in my fitness goals I ask myself if I’m giving 100%…” Bitch, please. It’s hard enough to exercise regularly and stay motivated. It takes a special kind of narcissist to wonder whether they are “excelling” unless we’re talking about an Olympic-grade athlete. When the goal is simply looking hot, I have to wonder what Maria’s “excuse” is for being so self-absorbed. I can’t fathom having the desire or energy to point towards anyone else to say, “See??? You should be doing this too.” How ungracious and rude. She doesn’t even recognize that different body types and medical conditions do exist. We should all just aspire to look like her no matter what. One could argue that she’s focused on health and not looks, but why pose in that outfit?

Which brings me to my point. To Maria Kang, fitness is all about looking hot and being able to hold that hotness over other people’s heads for not looking the same way. If you don’t look perfect, you must not be doing it right. Whereas I know that no matter how many miles I run (40 per week at present) or how well I eat, my thighs will always have some cellulite. No matter how many squats I do, my ass will always be flat. These jiggly thighs can carry me 20 miles without stopping. That’s good enough. Maria would probably call me lazy and jealous and ask for my “excuse.” Bring it on.

Maria Kang

Maria Kang

Maria Kang

Photos courtesy of Maria Kang on Facebook

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358 Responses to “Maria Kang, superfit mom, asks why you’re not superfit too: ‘What’s your excuse?’”

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  1. LAK says:

    my excuse? i’m lazy and i like pies!!!

    • blue marie says:

      ha, +1 but substitute pies for brownies.

    • *unf* Joan Jett says:

      I approve of this message.

      Plus, I don’t even WANT to look like her?!

    • Misery Fox says:

      Also lazy, and crazy for pizza, pasta and shawarma and anything else that makes me look like I’m pregnant.

    • Chicagogurl says:

      They haven’t invented a diet where carbs and being sedentary for 12 hours a day helps me lose weight.

    • jessica says:

      oh lawd… substitute mine for cold beer.. lol

    • TheOriginalKitten says:

      …and that’s your choice-not anybody else’s business. Nobody should be shamed for their lifestyle-food choices or exercise habits.

      Plus have we not learned by now that skinny does not automatically equal healthy?

      I work out and run a lot because it’s a stress reliever for me and I enjoy being/feeling strong. That being said, I recognize that my way of life might not be appealing to others. I HATE it when people try to make themselves feel special or “better than” by behaving like *their way* is the *only way*.

      • Bridget says:

        But a third of all Americans are obese, and our children are getting heftier by the generation. We cut back on physical education, our schoollunches are esentially fast food, and we eat so much processed food sometimes I wonder if people are plenting cardboard boxes. There is somethi wrong here, and somehow the converasation is about fat shaming?

        I don’t have a perfect body, and I will probably never have a percfect body because I don’t have the desire to do it. And no one is a lesser person for being heavier, and they shouldn’t love themselves less. But loving themselves doesn’t mean that they should stop striving for health and fitness. I feel like we cry ”fat shaming” because it’s easy. It’s hard to get your body moving, and it’s extta hard to get moving the bigger you are. But it’s not an excuse to stop.

      • Bridget says:

        And I’ll also say, as a mom of 2 young kids who’s involved in fitness, you do hear a lot of ”I can’t do that, I have a kid, it’s too hard.” There’s nothing wrong with saying ‘no excuses’

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        Oh I completely agree with what you’re saying here, but I’m also assuming that all the commenters above saying that they like dessert might be a little overweight, not morbidly obese.

        I figured that people are simply saying they’re not the living embodiment of perfect fitness, that’s all.

        Look, I live in a great walking and running city, where fitness is definitely a priority for most people but honestly, I don’t have kids and I work bankers hours so I have the flexibility to devote a lot of time to working out. I also walk constantly, but it’s easier to do that when you live in a city with plenty of parks.

        I hesitate to criticize others because I realize I have a life that’s very conducive to exercise.
        I don’t know what would happen if I suddenly had a really long commute to work, or had kids that I needed to take care of. I’d like to think I’d still find time to get in a run every morning but who knows?

      • emmie_a says:

        TOK: YES! Everyone makes personal choices about their level of fitness. This chick goes to great lengths to have a fat-free body. Great for her – but that is not everyone’s goal or priority. Why is my fitness routine and/or body shape any concern of hers? I could care less about her fitness routine and her body.

      • Sabrine says:

        The thing is though you just can’t get away with it forever. I ate pies, cake, cinnamon buns, etc. and had a sedentary lifestyle for years, watching t.v. for hours on the couch. Now my doctor says my cholesterol and sugar are high and I’m on the verge of having full blown diabetes which means having to test my blood twice a day and going on some horrible medication.

        I don’t think her photo with the kids is meant to be rude. What it’s done is hit a nerve and make people realize how bad habits can catch up with you; how they’re not taking care of themselves and need to change – whatever it takes. Nothing else seems to be working. I don’t want to look like her but striving for healthiness is not a bad thing.

      • MonicaQ says:

        I look pretty over weight. And then I bench over half my body weight and people go, “Oh.” I play football, I’m giving up 100lbs and a 12 inches in some cases, I am not going to be small or have a six pack. And I’m totally ok with that.

        Plus lemon pie. Mmmm.

      • Kcaia says:

        Wow, I agree on many points on both sides so ill just try to summarize.
        I agree with what this Maria chick is saying about the power of thought control and the excuses people make, and it’s great she’s overcome her own obstacles, but if she’s trying to inspire people she should try to be less arrogant about it and more understanding about ike her. Obesity is a problem, but it’s a personal problem with adults that shouldn’t affect or offend anyone if the consequences of don’t affect them, like with all personal problems of adults.

      • Bridget says:

        @TOK: see, I have 2 small children and just ran my second marathon – and I run with othermoms. It’s hard, and we have to go at obscenely early hours, but we make the time.

        I’m not at all advocating that people need to give up their cookies, cakes, pies, etc. But the one constant I’ve noticed in the thread is that foe the most part, people recognize that it’s their choice. I feel like we lose the main point in focusing n the idea of ‘well I don’t need to be completely fat free’. Losing the forest through the trees if you will.

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        @Bridget-I think it’s amazing that you retain a commitment to running while you have kids. As I said, I would hope that I do the same.

        The thing is, some people would rather sleep in than get up early to run. As you said, as long as they own it and are aware of it then I don’t see why anyone else would care. What if someone is entirely inactive but naturally very thin? Would we give them a hard time about their health too?
        I just think it’s up to people to set their own parameters for what they consider healthy.

      • Bridget says:

        @TOK my point is this: whether you have kids, you work, or are just plain busy, you always have a choice. It may not be the choice you like, but you always have the ability to make the healthy choice in some way. People may hate the confrontational nature of Ms. Kang’s mesaage, but she is correct in that having 3 kids doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a life of being unfit. Now, personally I think that ”fit” is way more important than ”thin’ and that the conversatn that we should be having is about people’s health and well-being. Butit kind of grosses me out that we’re judging someone for having the gall to say that exercise is implrtant.

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        …but is there really any woman out there who DOESN’T know the benefits of exercise? I mean, how many fitness magazines exist? Self, Fitness, Shape, Womens Health, Oxygen etc etc. How many daytime talks shows are devoted to health? How much information is there on the web that details the benefits of a good diet and exercise? Women are virtually inundated with fitness-related info on a daily basis–if that won’t change their minds then why would this woman assume that she could?

        She’s not telling overweight people anything that they don’t already know, she’s basically delivering the same information that we’ve known for decades now, but she’s delivering it in a really ineffective, off-putting way. I don’t think people are so much disputing her message, but the way that she’s CONVEYING that message.

      • Rhea says:

        @TOK : ITA. If the caption on the photo said (for example) YES, you can do it too!–this probably wouldn’t be a big story.

    • Momoftwo says:

      Love it! I love cupcakes and hate exercise

    • Jenna says:

      My excuse?

      I actually HAVE a life outside of the gym and slavishly obsessing over every single bite that goes into my mouth. I also don’t really want my body to be the only thing I’m capable of thinking about, talking about, or working on.

      Is being ~healthy~ important? Yeah. But healthy is one thing, being so obsessively ego centric that the only contribution I try to make is to praise my physical perfection while insisting the rest of the planet are lazy wastes of space if they don’t meet the same self involved levels of obsession is a whole ‘nother thing.

      • HH says:

        I love every word of this!

      • BreeinSEA says:

        Someone should ask her how much time she dedicates to knowledge and education. It is like a Nobel prize winner asking the same question.

      • WinterLady says:

        Pretty much yes. I will be upfront, I’m not athletic, don’t like really intense workouts, and have am more interested in creative pursuits. I try to work out and eat healthy, but I’m fine not having the perfect body, as long as I’m not more then a little overweight and I’m healthy.

        If this lady wanted to ‘inspire’ people, she could have put out a more encouraging message. Power to her for being healthy and athletic, but it does come off as arrogant, unless she is actually offering some sound advice and encouragement.

      • Bird says:

        Jenna for President!

      • hethre says:

        Thank you, Jenna & TOK. I would like to add that I am also not stupid enough to fall into society’s trap of believing that, as a woman, my most important contribution is that of a desirable body. Yes, I may be a healthy weight, but I will not excessively exercise to try to get a model’s body. I would rather spend that time educating myself, volunteering on important causes, and spending time with my daughters doing things that won’t give them body image issues.

      • RdyfrmycloseupmrDvlle says:

        1000% agree. Im just not buying what shes selling. No way she has time to raise three toddlers with no nanny, no help and work out enough to look like that. If she is then she certainly isent reading them books etc etc. the boys are probably watching her work out all day and are bored to tears. Great mom!

    • Virgilia Coriolanus says:

      I’m lazy, and I like baking.

    • Tammy says:

      I’m lazy & like cookies lol

    • Jules says:

      Best answer ever.

    • PoliteTia says:

      Sweeeet!

    • The Original Mia says:

      Yep. All that in a nutshell.

      One of my good friends is an personal trainer. I tried her plan for a month. Gave up. I like eating too much.

    • cheshire cat says:

      <3 <3 <3 the excuses! one of mine is butterfinger ice-cream & not having enough time or motivation to go exercise crazy! with a 4 month old I feel lucky to even get a chance to eat or go for a walk & get to stretch… whatever to her, 'if you don't exercise & do exactly what I do & look exactly how I look you are shit'… screw you. not cool to try & make others feel bad.

    • Dawned says:

      I’ll second that. We’re all going to end up six feet under anyway…have a hamburger.

  2. eliza says:

    I do not get why everybody has their panties in a wad over this?! She isn’t bitching about fat people. Insulting anyone directly. She is simply saying what is your excuse? Where’s the big deal? It doesn’t offend me. I am not in bad shape at all but my stomach doesn’t look like hers. I don’t have kids and my excuse is laziness.

    One minute we are bitching about fat people and out of shape people in this country. The next we are mightily offended by people talking about being fit. Good grief it is exhausting.

    • *unf* Joan Jett says:

      she asks to stop “tip-toeing around (fat?) people’s feelings” tho…

      • eliza says:

        Well that isn’t a big insult. Just my opinion. I mean one minute everyone is harping on what we eat. What our children should eat. Obesity. Diabetes. Inactivity. The next people are pissed off at someone for being fit and promoting physical fitness. I guess it all depends on who we like. People don’t seem to like this woman so it’s a big fricken deal. Just like people love Melissa McCarthy but god help any other actress who gains weight then the insults on weight come out.

        I just get tired of e everyone finding someone offensive with regards to weight issues. Too fit and preachy or too fat and lazy. It is frustrating.

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        FTR, I don’t find it “offensive” or terrible about what she said, I just found it preachy and patronizing.

        ..and I’m pretty damn fit.

    • Lucinda says:

      Exactly. This whole thing is BS and it pisses me off. Guilt is a CHOICE. You can look at the picture and choose to feel guilty or you can look at the picture and choose to be inspired. I don’t look anything like her but I choose to be inspired by her picture and her choice to make fitness a priority. It takes A LOT of work to look like that. Good for her.

      The truth is our society is fat and a lot of people use health problems as an excuse. I just don’t buy it. I have a chronic illness. What I eat has a HUGE impact on how I feel but I could take my drugs and whine that anytime I feel sick, it isn’t my fault but my illness. Instead I choose to take my drugs AND eat the best food I can eat. It’s not easy. It takes willpower. But it’s a choice. So seriously, back off people. *steps down from soapbox*

      • Naye in VA says:

        +1

      • tarheel tina says:

        agree 100%. It only offends the people with “excuses” because bottom line, no one who exercises at least an hour a day and gets their nutrition eating fruits nuts vegetables and lean meats is going to be morbidly obese.

      • Diana says:

        Amen.

      • Beatrice says:

        Agree!! Nicely said.

      • PinkParasols says:

        @tarheel

        You CAN eat fruits, vegetable and lean meats and still be obese. People act like obesity is something that is fully understood, even by the medical community. It’s NOT. While people can lose weight, decades of evidence shows up that the vast majority of people will gain it back-and it’s not for lack of trying. I recently read an article where an obese child was removed from the home by state officials because of his weight. Even under a state supervised diet the child GAINED weight. Im not sure why it’s so impossible to believe that some people will probably always be fat and if they maintain a decent diet and exercise, they can be fat AND healthy.

      • Kassis says:

        Food addiction is a problem in the USA and some other countries. Some people LIVE for food. It is their life. They are always thinking about their next meal. I know a very obese woman who claims she eats normally. On pinterest, she has pinned literally thousands of recipes for cakes, pies, brownies, desserts….She would have to be drooling all day long over these recipes, to have pinned so many thousands of them. She lives for food and lusts after it all the time.

      • Truth says:

        Lucinda, other people’s bodies are none of your business. You keep preaching on your stupid soapbox about “choices”, yet demonstrate an utter lack of respect for those who CHOOSE to live differently from you. Nobody owes you, or the amazingly arrogant Maria Kang, an “excuse” for making the CHOICE to live THEIR lives on THEIR terms. Got it?

        Kassis, if anybody is obsessed, it’s obviously YOU. How do you know so much about this woman on Pinterest? Are you a stalker? Have you really sifted through her mountain of food pins? Really? Who has time for shit like that?! Would you be this obsessed over a skinny woman who likes junk food? Your prejudice is showing. I recommend that you seek professional help because this is not normal behavior.

    • LB says:

      We are tip toeing over feelings here though. Unnecessarily hurt feelings. She wasn’t insulting anyone. I thinks she even acknowledges that sometimes one’s health condition isn’t by choice. But sometimes it is. Obesity is rampant. It’s not because our bodies suddenly collectively evolved into that. Some of it is unfortunately due to poor choices.

      I looked at that caption and considered the choices I do make. I think that was her point. I know no matter how much I work out, I will never look like that but I don’t want to and I don’t think she was expecting people to. I think she was challenging people to consider what they let get in their own way.

      • Tillie says:

        @Lucinda:

        I think we are actually in agreement. The message Maria Kang is purporting to spread–ie, it IS possible to make positive food and fitness choices even while parenting young children–is wonderful and I don’t disagree with it at all. You can and should, as you say, snack on a carrot instead of a Snickers bar.

        I guess what I’m saying is that this is actually a PROFESSIONAL achievement that Maria Kang is showing off with the attention-grabbing “What’s your excuse?” caption. She’s a fitness trainer and she has tight abs. Even when I had the time to prioritize working out 90 minutes a day 5x a week, I didn’t look exactly like Maria Kang; we have different body types. Similarly, I understand that not everyone has the same interests, resources, cultural capital, etc. that I do, so I would never parade my professional achievements with the caption “What’s your excuse?”.

        But, in the end, kudos to her, I guess. She’s gotten her business the attention she was seeking.

      • WinterLady says:

        Sometimes, though, being able to eat well and work out comes what a person can afford to eat. I don’t think it’s any surprise is usually the poorer people in this country that are the most overweight and unhealthy. The cost of health is high in this country and not everyone can afford it.

      • Truth says:

        Tillie said:

        “You can and should, as you say, snack on a carrot instead of a Snickers bar.”

        Should? According to who? What happened to the concept of “choices” that everyone is tossing around? I don’t like carrots, therefore I will not eat them. Are you going to force me to eat them? Good luck with that. Everyone SHOULD eat whatever they choose, no matter what that may be. I’m fed up with the Food Nazis. In fact, the more I see food shaming, the more I want to rebel. I just ate at McDonalds, but seeing this comment makes me want to go buy a Snikers out of spite.

    • Clever hand says:

      The thing is it starts up the whole “mommy war” thing. My excuse is that I’m pursuing my career and I prioritize that over working out. I also prioritize cooking healthy meals, spending time with my son and working a second job to make my career goals happen. I just don’t feel that strongly about baring my belly on fb. For her to come out with that caption she is accusing every out of shape mom of using the kids as a scapegoat and that will immediately make a mom defensive.

      • Naye in VA says:

        It depends on what you are using the kids as a scapegoat for. As you said, you dont care about baring your belly on fb. So therefore you have no excuses because that isn’t your objective. You are fine with the way you look.
        But if a mother is not fine with the way they look, constantly complaining about her fat thighs or wiggly arms, but still does nothing about it, or the bare minimum about it, and uses having kids as a scapegoat…I think those are who she is calling out here.
        If one is fine with how they look, I dont see why they should take offense. She never says “look like me” That’s just what people interpreted.

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        That’s exactly it. I have friends that don’t work out, some are thin and some are not, but they all have one thing in common: they would simply rather spend their time doing something else, instead of going to the gym.

        I don’t really see anything wrong with that. It’s a personal choice.

      • Tillie says:

        Yeah, the alleged sentiment behind this (“I prioritize fitness with 3 young children, you can too!”) is positive, but she’s definitely trolling us with that headline. I mean, I could post pictures of myself with my kids and my Ivy League Master’s degree and the national award I won in my field during my youngest’s first year of life (because, honestly, moving forward in my career while balancing parenthood has been my focus and has displaced fitness in a lot of ways) with the caption “What’s Your Excuse?”….but I understand that that is a douchey thing to do. And would probably not be impressive/desirable to many, many people. And does not take into account the fact that I was born with a facility in certain subjects that other people weren’t–in the same way that even when I was prioritizing fitness, I did not have the same body type as Maria Kang.

      • Lucinda says:

        @Tillie–the difference is not everyone has access to higher education. Also, not everyone has the intelligence to do those sorts of things. It’s not just about time and priorities. But everyone can control what they put in their mouth and studies show that the majority of losing weight is about what you eat, not how much you exercise. Exercise is about health and fitness, not necessarily about weight. And yes, I know that making super healthy meals from scratch takes time. But you can always choose a banana or a carrot over a snickers bar. kwim?

      • m says:

        You are right, it is all about priorities. My sister in law always makes derogatory comments about her weight in comparison to me and it is very uncomfortable. She forgets that I work out like a dog and am careful with what I eat. I like running and how it makes me feel and look, so I find the time. She excels at baking and gardening and that is where she spends her time.

        I think that had the headline been “It IS possible” trying to motivate moms to prioritize their fitness and health, then maybe the picture would have been taken better. Rather it’s a headline that makes already busy moms feel like they should be doing more.

      • Mel says:

        M- totally agree. I came across this picture and an article on huff post from a mom talking about how she almost let her 4 year old drown in the bathtub because she was trying to multitask, both today on FB. Talk about mixed messages. You feel like you need to be super mom all of the time and this “what’s your excuse” doesn’t help.

        I know I compare myself to my SIL because people are always calling her super mom, she seems to do everything and do it to perfection, with the kids. But is it society that makes me feel like I need to be more like her or is it just me?

    • Echo says:

      Right!! Americans are more obese and lazy than ever, why knock her down for striving to be healthy and looking great? People who bitch and hate over this have their own issues. She said she is not naturally skinny and over came obstacles. She never said you have to look like her either, just try and be your best.

    • lana86 says:

      agree. I dont see a problem

    • Angel says:

      I totally agree with you! If you are going to do/be something, OWN IT. If you want to be fat and lazy and eat cake, then be strong enough in yourself to say “I’m not interested in being fit and healthy”, bc then none of the “insults” will hurt you.

      this woman isn’t attacking anyone, she’s well within her rights to make the point that there’s no excuse good enough to not be fit. Not enough time? MAKE time (ie you have 2 kids and work 12 hour shifts? Get up earlier… I know 2 mothers who do this, don’t say it’s impossible) There is no good enough excuse for people who say “I can’t do it”, so you should say “I don’t want to do it” and OWN your actions and decisions,

      This is not fat shaming, PLEASE, what is wrong with this mollycoddled world now that anyone who isn’t buttering up and stroking the egos of EVERYONE is seen as “SHAMING”. Its not shaming, its stating a fact or an opinion. Get over yourselves.

    • Ok says:

      It is not the content that offends. It is the attitude.

      People don’t like to be “should” all over.

      I think the author of the commentary does a beautiful job of pointing that out

    • littlestar says:

      I too was not as upset over this controversy as most people have been. I looked at the picture and thought okay, good for you for being fit but it takes a LOT of time, energy, and discipline (she would have a low body fat percentage for her stomach muscles to show) that most of us don’t have. I’m a long distance runner too, and I do not have a six pack, and I also have cellulite on my thighs and butt, even though I have strong muscular legs. I workout/run a lot more and harder than most people I know, and I do not look anywhere close to this Maria Kang. I am all for people being fit and healthy and happy, but trying to body shame other people is not the way to do it, and to think most people can train/workout at her level to look like that at all times is just ridiculous.

    • ChicagoGirl says:

      She’s not say “What’s your excuse.” She’s asking it. That’s what turned me cold to her. Who is she that anyone owes her an explanation? Her message is more discouraging than anything. But I suppose if she promoted herself in a friendly way she wouldn’t have all this publicity right now.

    • Steph says:

      OK, this was fat shaming but if I didn’t have my daily workout, I’d be on a rooftop somewhere with a high powered rifle. Best stress reliever in the world. I’m not shading anybody else that doesn’t work out: I’m just saying that it works for me. I certainly don’t point my finger at anybody else who doesn’t work out — people have lives. For me, not working out is not an option because I’ve found it makes me feel so good.

    • Denise says:

      It’s her grandstanding, she’s flaunting her body and making the very broad assumption that everyone is on an even playing field. Having a husband around to help out and give time for getting in shape, for one. She’s dumb, painfully self-absorbed and has short arms. Thank god she doesn’t have a daughter.

  3. MeowuiRose says:

    Ugh. And now I feel like a fat slob for my post baby jiggly stretched marked belly. There is no shame in working on being fit regardless of if you have had one baby two babies or zero babies. But throwing down the gauntlet because someone doesn’t look as fit as you is not ok.

    • Dani2 says:

      Girl, you have nothing to feel guilty about – not everyone is the same, okay so she’s a fitness lover, good for her, everyone is entitled to their own life choices. She isn’t a better mother than any other mum out there. Personally, I have come to accept that hot wings will be the death of me lol, I work out a few times a week but I’m not an all out fitness enthusiast.

    • Bridget says:

      Don’t feel bad or lesser, but know this: your body is a beautiful machine that has already done something truly amazing. You’ve brought an entire life into the world. Getting activeis wonderful because it makes you feel good and makes you healthier. So instead of taking the lesson: you should be able to look like this after having three kids, take this lesson: having 3 kids doesn’t mean that you’re doomed to forever having a mom body.

      Ps: give it time, and the stretch marks do fade, amd the belly skin goes back to mostly where it should be. And as dopey as it may sound, I appreciate my stretch marks (good thing, because there’s a lot of them) because they show what my body’s done.

  4. F says:

    Well…she’s hot.

  5. aang says:

    umm……. because i’m reading gossip and eating cold pizza

    • IzzyB says:

      I’m out of the house 7am-8pm for work then I come home, shower, eat, and read Celebitchy whilst having a snack.

      My weekends are my lie ins, laundry, and doing things I can’t do in the week because the shops are shut when I get home.

      Then I want to see friends. And then I want to just lie back and do sod all before work again.

      I could find time. Or I could be relaxed and happy.

  6. aims says:

    I’m also lazy and I love chocolate.

  7. Whatever says:

    She’s a poser. Next!

  8. Cody says:

    Yes, it seems that she is narcissistic, but being fair to her. I have read that her husband is a wounded veteran and can’t work. Their income revolves around her and it supports the family. It shows strength and character, to me ,when your love one comes back from a war, changed mentally and physically forever.

    • Clever hand says:

      Wounded veterans get money. Not a lot but they do.

      • pantalones en fuego says:

        Actually, they get quite a lot. I would guess that he’s getting around $4-$5k a month. They’re not raking in the dough but they’re far from destitute.

      • tarheel tina says:

        ok im offended by this number because it is off by a LONGSHOT.

        My husband’s good friend was shot in the head in Iraq and gets 2500 after taxes and has such bad PTSD and memory problems that he is a recluse and cannot work. With 3 kids, it is his wife putting the roof over their head as he has to live near the hospital in Washington DC which is very expensive.

        no housing allowance, no cost of living allowance. so your 4-5k is assuming its a Colonel or Major or some other officer with FULL retirement (20 years service).

        The regular lower to mid enlisted veterans who make up the brunt of wounded warriors are not getting these huge checks you are assuming although they deserve every bit of it and more.

      • Christin says:

        The number of dependents and percent of disability also factor into the pay amount, which is free of taxes.

      • pantalones en fuego says:

        @ tarheel tina-

        Totally didn’t mean to offend you. My figures are not arbitrary but are based upon what my friend’s son, who happens to be a disabled vet, is getting from veteran’s benefits coupled with SSI. I realize that everyone’s case is different though and not everyone is getting that amount every month.

      • Anon33 says:

        @pantalones
        I work in disability law. I look at ssi and veterans payments every single day. Nobody ( other than the officers noted above) gets the amount of money you are quoting. And not all veterans get ssi or disability in conjunction with their vet bens. That is not a given.

    • marina says:

      So what you’re saying is he can watch the kids while she works out 5-6 hours a day. Lucky her. Her income revolves around being fit, so she’s fit. I can’t stand that most of the articles I’ve seen the comments that are negative everyone says that the commentors are all fat and lazy. My 98 lb friend was equally offended because she can’t find time to exercise and be “fit” because she works 65 hours a week before trying to take care of 5 kids as a single mom. Not everyone offended is fat or LAZY. I guess being a busy mom is her “excuse.”

      • L.S. says:

        I agree! Her income revolving around being fit most likely factors in. I realize not in every case is that true. But in this one, I am betting it is. And she wants to be controversial; that gets her more publicity.

        I’m happy for her. But it’s not me. It’s not what I want. So, I prefer to let each person choose their own path and not fault them for not choosing a path like mine.

  9. LadyRay says:

    I honestly don’t think she said anything wrong. Many people have excuses about not being fit.

    But I would argue it’s more important to be healthy than fit FOR ME.

    • Erinn says:

      I agree with this. I’m overweight. I need to get my butt in gear. I didn’t find this offensive. Because you know what? I always find an excuse NOT to work out. She’s absolutely right. She juggles 3 babies and still manages to keep fit. Good for her.

      It’s not something everyone can do when you’re working a regular 9-6 job like I am; but I really SHOULD get my butt in gear for 30-60 minutes after work; or even get up earlier.

      • EllaM says:

        I don’t find this offensive at all. I’m having some weight problems too, but there is no “overweight” body-type, that’s just one more excuse. If you don’t have a medical condition, you can have a fit body. Maybe not as tights as her’s, but I don’t think that’s her point.

        I think she’s talking about people, who watch hours of TV every evening, but don’t find any time to work out… If you’re not working out, because you’re too lazy and don’t care about it, you’re not making an excuse.

    • Naye in VA says:

      Ughh I dont get the hype myself. I took the pic to mean that she has three kids and can attain that level of fitness so really “what is your excuse”. If your excuse is thyroids or some medical issue then her picture more than likely excludes you.
      Everybody knows that most people who are overweight AND unhappy with their body type, and yes I said MOST, are because they find every reason to continue to eat poorly, or not gt up and exercise. I’m 5’5 194 lbs, and a single mother, and I work full time, and I go to school full time, and occasionally pick up extra work, but I know if I really really wanted it, I could get that 45 minutes of DOCTOR recommended cardio everyday. I get wrapped up in a book, and I like a good steak and cheese sub. Nobody could ever look like her because every single one of us is made differently. But that doesn’t mean that most of us who want to be fit, cant be. But we all have excuses.
      She didn’t say “HOT” she didn’t say “look like me”
      I really think she was trying to say “if I can do it, so can you”

      For those that think she doesn’t acknowledge that other people have issues that may prevent them from being her level of fit, what was she supposed to do, put a disclaimer at the bottom of the photo?

    • Angel says:

      I love hearing the nonsense like what the writer said about “medical conditions and different body types”, bc that’s the oldest excuse in the book. There’s no “fat body type”, there are slow metabolisms but that doesn’t mean those people can’t lose weight and keep it off, its just harder. The only medical conditions that “cause fat” is Cushings… NOT a slow thyroid — half my family has a slow thyroid and those who don’t watch their diet and exercise are fat, an those who work out and eat well are slim. NOT DIFFICULT TO FIGURE OUT.

      In this world where obesity rates are climbing every day and everyone has a lame a$$ excuse about why they can’t work out and why they can’t eat well and then excuses about why they had a heart attack and why they have diabetes and high blood pressures… we NEED people like her to give us a kick in the pants. In Canada, our health care comes off our taxes. Guess what happens when there are more unhealthy people than healthy and everyone and their mom has an obesity related disease? MY TAXES GO UP. So in that respect it IS my business, and it should be everyone’s business that there are so many grossly overweight, inactive, and unhealthy people. A little pudge is not an emergency, but carrying extra weight contributes to ill health. This is a fact. And when ppl want to address this, everyone cries about “fat shaming”. Grow a thicker skin (no pun intended) or stop with the excuses!

    • Claudia says:

      I agree with all the replies to LadyRay’s thread. Kang is not saying: “you have to look like me and aspire to be as hot as me!”– what I get from the post is: We’re all busy. We can all try to one-up each other on who has more on their plate, whose lives are more complicated, who has the least amount of free time (like I’ve seen in many other comments) but that’s just a distraction from the focal issue. We’re all juggling many responsibilities and obligations, and we’re all crunched on time– but if you want to be fit and healthy, just like anything else that’s worthwhile, you find the time and put in the work. You don’t need to be ripped, you don’t need to aspire to get her abs, the perfect butt, tiny thighs, or Keira Knightley’s skinniness. Being healthy means eating healthy AND exercising regularly. The two go hand in hand. If you want to be healthier, if you can find the time to watch TV or play games on the computer every night… you can squeeze in some exercise. You can take steps to improve your diet. 20 minutes three times a week makes a difference. Introducing more vegetables to your diet makes a difference. Taking a walk on your lunch break or parking further away so you walk more makes a difference.

      The goal isn’t about looking like some specific ideal. The goal is, if you moan about wanting to be X, Y, or Z… stop making excuses and do something about it! Her post targets those people; not individuals who don’t care either way, or people who want to change but legitimately can’t because of illness or disability. I think a lot of the reaction to her post is knee-jerk defensiveness.

  10. Alexis says:

    She’s not working hard enough. I see loose stomach skin in the blue bikini photo 😛

    • msgoblin says:

      …and a phantom peen.

    • Deb. says:

      @alexis Uh let’s see how your stomach looks after having 3 kids back2back, she still looks amazing. No offense but it’s always a hater that points out the faults in someone who’s doin great..

      • pantalones en fuego says:

        I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say that alexis was being facetious.

      • Clever hand says:

        I hate to pour fuel on the fire but I saw yesterday on the Today show that she posted the blue bikini pic as a “before” to show people that she used to be imperfect too.

    • It'sJustBlanche says:

      I don’t care how many crunches you do, you’re not getting rid of those wrinkles and extra skin without surgery. Or photoshop (re: the top photo).

      • Gina says:

        Exactly!!Genetics, body build, skin elasticity, etc play a lot in how the body will snap back after one has a child.

        But ya know what? Whatever makes her feel good (bashing people who struggle over weight), one day when gravity and wrinkles kick in hopefully she will realize things. And yes the first pic is photoshopped to hell and back. Soooo not impressed with this 10 second famer.

  11. BRE says:

    I think you really hit on why this picture has upset people. I find it funny that she said she used to have an eating disorder. As someone that struggled with one myself, one way to continue this disorder is to funnel it into a fitness and health craze. I’m all for exercise and eating healthy but I’m sick of all this pressure that new moms in this country are receiving to look like models after they give birth.

    • eliza says:

      She’s a fitness instructor supoorting her family.

      • BRE says:

        I majored in Kinesiology in college and besides me there were MANY other students in the field that had some serious eating disorders. I’m just saying that for some individuals that have battled an eating disorder, a way to still continue some unhealthy thought patterns and obsessions is to use fitness and healthy eating

    • poppy says:

      she traded one disorder for another.

      • Pandy says:

        That was my takeaway from this as well – she traded one disorder for another. Wonder what she would think if someone had posted a caption “What’s your excuse” above a picture of someone shoving their finger down their throat bent over a toilet? Flat bellied @sshole.

    • Tammy says:

      As someone that also suffered from an eating disorder, I agree with you. She is funneling the obsessive/negative thought process through fitness. I did it. I looked damn good, too but I was also crazy…lol. I am not nearly fit as I was when going through that craze but I am far healthier now (mentally that is). As soon as I am able, I will be back in the gym and hopefully won’t go nuts. 🙂

    • Nicole says:

      + a thousand!

      I’ve seen it first hand with my boss, same exact thinking.

      It’s a good thing she doesn’t have girls, she would be passing that same message on to them and the body issues would start on another generation.

      I’m overweight and have trained for three years for half-marathons. I’ve run more than some people do in their lifetime. Would anyone know by looking at me? Nope, but I don’t care. I do it for personal accomplishment and to stay healthy.

      I feel bad for her, she has her priorities all screwed up.

      • Amanda says:

        AMEN! Glad someone mentioned this. I’m no professional, but based on the things I’ve read about eating disorders is that people who DO go into remission tend to back away from the crazy fitness/health regimes. Relapse is always a possibility. Super fit, health conscious people who say they USED to struggle with an eating disorder are quite possibly using their extremely health/body conscious exterior as a disguise for their disorder. People tend to admire others who are “disciplined” enough to maintain a tight physique and structured eating habits, so it’s a pretty good disguise.

  12. Lindsey says:

    Great body. Shitty attitude.

  13. blue marie says:

    This chick is a former bulimic and I heard her on the radio this morning. Her exercise, fitness, what have you is a way to control. She must have repeated that word (control) 20 times. Just my crack-pot theory but I think she channeled the bulimic tendencies to excessive exercising. It’s all about priorities I think, she puts fitness first where others may put something else first. I also think the photo is purely a marketing strategy that’s working..

    • cloud&feather says:

      Bingo

    • poppy says:

      ITA agree, she traded one disorder for another.

    • TheOriginalKitten says:

      Yeah this completely.

    • lucy2 says:

      I think you’re right.
      I have a friend like that – she’s a control freak in every aspect of her life, and goes to the gym for hours a day, every day, and is super restrictive with calories. She’s actually underweight and probably unhealthy in a few ways, but it’s all about control.

      • cloud&feather says:

        That sounds like exercise bulimia.

      • Nicole says:

        Exactly!

      • lucy2 says:

        cloud&feather, I agree, I think that’s what it is. (Goop seems to do that too.) She often posts on FB about how long she worked out, how many calories burned, etc, and it’s always very extreme. I don’t know her super well, but I’m curious what happened in her life to make her that way.

    • Liberty says:

      @blue marie – I tend to agree with you. I think what has offended some people is that this woman’s life is based on working out. I know people working two jobs, working 70 hour weeks in one job, trying to care for kids and volunteer and etc. Some lack the money for a gym or yoga class and are barely making ends meet in spite of all of this due to education costs and medical bills. If they had time/money, they would love to do more working out too. “What’s your excuse” would result in a host of answers this person doesn’t have the critical thinking skills to mine. Is her husband caring for the kids while she spends time at work (working out) — then her lifestyle is unlike many women’s. I work out and stay fit but it can be hard to squeeze it into an 80 hour week or when I am stuck flying around the world. It’s hard to work in a pressure-cooker office for my friends where they’re basically glued to chairs in their offices or meetings.

      Her message is a marketing tool certainly, directed at a segment of the population who has the time and income and maybe certain personal needs to emulate her. No problem with that. It’s business. And she will score a homerun with women I know who do not work and simply work out and spa all day, and think other women are stupid for having jobs when they can work out

      I worked with a woman like her once. A former bulimic. Similar attitude as well. The answer from some of us who worked with her to this very quesion was “Our excuse is we have to work later at night and come in early too to cover for you while you are compulsively working out in the company fitness center to burn off the six almonds that were your lunch.” She and her abs were let go in a few months. Her career has continued on this way — 4 hour lunchtime workouts, leave early to work out, mocking the coworkers doing her job for her and…..fired. Maybe she should switch and become an independent personal trainer too.

      • blue marie says:

        Wow, that is way too much working out for me. I’m lucky if I can get 4 hours a week (if I’m being completely honest, it’s more like 2 hours) You’re right though, people like her should become trainers since it’s obvious that that’s what they love to do. Me, not so much..

    • Welldun says:

      Congrats to her for being/getting/whatever in shape but if she’s feeling superior…I don’t like that, to each their own with no mean-girling.

      What I had started to say was to look closer at her, her life, and her history to find the cracks, they’re always there somewhere. I was thinking that her husband probably had a gf but…then I saw that he has damage from war.

      So now I think maybe her body may be somewhat of a coping mechanism for her, for stress, etc.

      If she’s selling something maybe she might rethink her wording…just a thought.

    • Izzy says:

      OK, THANK YOU!! I honestly could not decide whether this woman offended me or not, and I think you just helped me clarify my confusion. (I’m seriously thanking you, not being sarcastic.)

      I do need to lose weight, and it’s really not about appearance as much as health. I’m currently healthy, but with my family history, I know I have to do something if I want to stay this way. I hit a plateau in my weight loss and apparently have pitched a tent here. So, OK, she’s talking to me.

      BUT, that’s not what she’s saying, is it? She’s asking what my excuse is for being overweight. Well, if she were asking what’s my excuse for not exercising more, etc., I could see not being offended – my lack of motivation is something only I can remedy. But she IS fat-shaming, and for that she is a Grade A C U Next Tuesday.

      As for the control thing, you hit the nail right on the head. Many years ago I was sick, and my life was in chaos. Everything reflected it including my home. Now, I can’t stand chaos. Must. Have. Order. I’m about to start some construction on my house, and thank goodness I have understanding contractors or they’d go nuts from the nit-picky questions I’ve asked, but instead they appreciate the preparedness and I know every detail of what is going to happen and how to deal with it, as there are several moving parts to the job.

      So yeah, she’s just exerting an extreme form of control over a problem that she probably has not dealt with the root cause of.

      /rant 🙂

      • blue marie says:

        When I first heard about the story this morning I was furious and then I heard her start to talk and justify the picture, her position and after I couldn’t be too mad because it does sound like a deeper issue. I could stand to lose a few pounds myself but I just don’t care to sacrifice my time doing other things to constantly be at the gym. It’s good for some people, but I would hate it.

        Oh, and good luck on the construction, hopefully everything goes smoothly for you!

    • Brittney says:

      Yes, it sounds exactly like exercise bulimia, which isn’t a recovery step but simply another form of the same eating disorder. Full recovery from an eating or body image disorder includes letting go of the association between your appearance and your identity. It sounds like she believes she’s better now, but she still has the same control issues, and she’s still seeking constant validation (posting these pictures, pushing herself to “excel”, etc). Not healthy. Not the kind of behavior to which anyone should be aspiring, either.

  14. k says:

    I’m glad she doesn’t have daughters.

  15. yael says:

    ehhhhh, i think everyone is overthinking this thing a little too much.

    • Terrile says:

      Feminists often do despise women who want to be slender and attractive. They will label her as having all kinds of neuroses and disorders.

  16. jbear75 says:

    i think the implied excuse shes refering to in that picture would be “i dont have time, i have small kids” and her answer was “bitch, i have three” I take no offense. I also am not as fit as her, and im 25 with no kids. thats ok.

    • Clever hand says:

      But working out is her job. My job is English teacher that doesn’t give me the right to ask other people who don’t read on a daily basis “what’s your excuse for bad grammar?”

      • tarheel tina says:

        I think you would if you were friends with my cousin, whose latest facebook update is begging for an english teacher intervention:

        “Fill so lucky too have Missi in my life she’s such a stron loveing mom to awer babey boy stephen. u make my Out look on awer feucher brite. u triply are amassing.”

      • Heather says:

        ? Sure it does. Everyone should have good grammar. Just like everyone SHOULD aspire to be healthy and fit. Why? Because it’s the best way to go through life.

        I’m sure this will offend people, but those that are offended are just proving this woman right by giving excuses.

  17. Ruyana says:

    Maria is lovely. Her body is fit, her children are adorable. I don’t think she really wants to motivate people. You don’t motivate people by shaming them. She just wants us to be awed, as in she’s the Gwyneth Paltrow (sp) of fitness.

    I don’t have to make excuses. I’m not her and I don’t want to be her. I’m healthy and that’s good enough for me.

    • MJ says:

      I think you hit the nail on the head.

      I admire her for getting her body back in great shape (but she is a fitness instructor so that is her job after all), but you don’t motivate someone by implying what a fat slob they are because their abs aren’t as tight as yours.

      I am fit (nowhere near as fit as her), but I also work a full-time job and like to have time with my friends and family. I try to eat right/healthy and exercise when I have the time; there is no way in hell I’m going to ever look like Maria Kang.

      If she wants to judge me, fine, let her. I’ll take my life over hers any day.

    • lucy2 says:

      I think you are right! It’s more about seeking praise/compliments/awe for herself than actually motivating people.

  18. Heather says:

    Heck yeah she looks great – but is it her job to work out? If that is the case, of course she looks good! Try sitting at a desk for 12 hours a day, 5 days a week, sometimes working on the weekends too, and go home to take care of the kids with no help from anyone AND make dinner, clean the house, shop for groceries, all by yourself. Then tell me how much time you have to work out. I do it 3 times a week and wish I could work out more, but such is life! And no, I’m not fat at 120 lbs and 5’4″ with a 12 month old, but I can say that I DO NOT have abs like that. Wish I did! 🙂

    • Clever hand says:

      PREACH! I don’t want to get into the whole feminism thing but I think your approach will have more of a payoff than obsessively working out. I am always amazed at women who continue to choose jobs that have little future, like fitness instructor. What is Maria going to be doing at 60? What if (God forbid) her husband trades her in for a younger model?

      • Si says:

        As a guy I can simply say, NO CHANCE. She is as hot if not hotter as younger women in America could possibly look.

  19. Kristen says:

    My excuse?

    I don’t want to commit to fitness at that level. It isn’t worth it to me. I’d rather spend my time writing or watching hockey on tv or playing with my dog.

    Is that … is that a good enough excuse?

    • MonicaQ says:

      Hockey yaaaass!

    • loveisthecoal says:

      I will swipe the watching hockey excuse for myself, if you don’t mind! 🙂

    • Steph says:

      It’s not that difficult, as I found to my astonishment. I have that body (again, much to my astonishment) from eating right (no junk food — and I feel so much better for it) and working out 4 times a week for an hour. It’s not that much of a commitment for me, though I can appreciate that others may not have the time.

  20. CarrieUK says:

    My excuse….36 weeks pregnant, I’m still swimming 4 times a week but hell I’ll eat biscuits if I want, I like biscuits, giving in to cravings? Want to try telling me not to? 😉

    • Steph says:

      OMG I hear you girl. I gained 72 pounds when I was pregnant! My ankles were 18″ around! I didn’t see my toes for months! Thankfully, most of it was water but my husband said I was eating everything in sight. He said he’d come home and count the cats for fear one of them had disappeared into my maw. It DOES come off though, never fear. Don’t forget a cocoa butter stick. You can get them at Body Shoppe. I don’t have a single stretch mark and I’m convinced it’s because I practically bathed in these from the moment I knew I was pregnant. Don’t forget your butt.

  21. GoodNamesAllTaken says:

    She’s right. I have been making excuses not to exercise. I’m going to start today. By finding her and pushing her into a muddy swamp. Or throwing her camera off a tall building. Or lighting her favorite bikini on fire.

    But first I will force her to look up the definitions of “resonate” and “apology.”

  22. anon says:

    what’s her husband’s excuse?

  23. Spooks says:

    Is she some kind of a fitness trainer or something? Is fitness her job? Or does she have a 9-5 job and three kids and manages to looks so well?
    Whatever the case may be, body shaming is never good.

  24. Amory says:

    Her headline is judge-y, there is no two ways about that — it very directly calls people out for making excuses. It also seems intentional; girl has figured out that being rude and controversial pays.

    What bugs me more is her faux apology, which I frankly think is b.s. The “poor me” tone just doesn’t do it for me — I would rather work out with someone who is positive about all people and just wants people to get active.

    I don’t think she did anything horribly wrong — I just think that people like her are one of the reasons so many folks are turned off by the gym scene. No one wants to work out, doing the best they can, knowing that the woman next to them is wondering why they aren’t slimmer, stronger, etc.

    • lucy2 says:

      Great post, I agree. I have no problem with her being super fit and wanting to inspire people, but don’t do it in a condescending and judgey manner. But she’s looking to sell herself, so she’s looking for “controversy”.

      There are a lot of excuses, but there are also a lot of legit reasons why not everyone can do exactly what she did – medical issues, time, money, etc. If she wants to expand her fitness career, that would be a good thing for her to consider.

    • Liberty says:

      Great comment.

  25. Bethlynn says:

    I was happy for her personal success until she had to go and be a low-carb twat muffin about it. My excuse is that I wasn’t born a tiny asian woman. And while I may not have abs for days, I’d still take your man… (that was a bit middle school, I know, but I feeling douchey this am)

  26. Just says:

    Bitch cause im the mommy, the daddy, and the nanny.
    And now on to my 4th CRANBERRY SCONE!I wish i could give you all 1.There so nice.

  27. wtf says:

    I don’t understand the controversy. She said something b$tchy and people saw it and started saying b$tchy things back to her. All is right with the world.

    As for my B$tchy comment – If I didn’t have morals; while you were busy at the gym I would come over with a pizza and steal your man 🙂

  28. Bethlynn says:

    I was happy for her personal success until she had to go and be a low-carb t.wat muffin about it. My excuse is that I wasn’t born a tiny asian woman. And while I may not have abs for days, I’d still take your man… (that was a bit middle school, I know, but I feeling douchey this am)

  29. LucyS says:

    Her “I won’t tell you” rant is where she lost me. I really didn’t care about the picture; it was kind of an eyeroll brag thing that I skipped over. Then I read her “apology” above. She’s smug. And feels like she’s better than women who don’t do what she does.

    I only have 1 kid. I work full time. I’m currently in a third IVF cycle that leaves me bloated, tired, and a crying wreck constantly. My husband has seriously health issues. I do all of the same things she does: haul my kid around, chase after him constantly, clean the house, cook, do the laundry, etc. I choose to spend my downtime reading, watching tv with my husband, or having drinks with my girlfriends on the one night a month our husbands collectively agree to single parent. So that’s my excuse, Lady. I choose to spend my downtime differently than you do and I’m okay with that decision. But your smug attitude over it is a huge turn off.

    • Naye in VA says:

      I dont mind her smug attitude, because it was in response to the thousands of hurtful responses she was receiving about the picture. She’s actually had that picture posted a year before it went viral. She never said anything until she got a personal email saying she was a disgrace to women. All over a simple picture.
      I probably would have gone off, and my “apology” would have been anything but

    • Nicole says:

      Good luck with your IVF! Baby dust you’re way. I’m currently on Clomid and Metaformin.

      And yes, I’d much rather watch Disney Jr or play soccer in the backyard with him than devote 2 hours or more at the gym to look like her. I’ll keep my flabby thighs and my mom stomach 🙂 if it means spending time with the ones I love.

  30. Feebee says:

    She’s just another troll looking for attention and feedback. The “what’s your excuse?” line was deliberately provocative and IMO a little bitchy.

    As for her list of things she needs to be super fit for… She’s overselling just a tad. Sure, there are a few things there you’d need fitness for but jogging beside 3 and 2 year olds is doable, her dead weight kids are a maximum of 3 years old so no more than 35 pounds… Heavy car seats… what, are the kids in them at the time?

    Whatever lady. You look fabulous, well done… You keep doing what you’re doing and leave us the hell alone.

    • Lady D says:

      Its been my experience that one does not jog alongside a 2-year-old. They are among the fastest things on the planet.

    • Becky says:

      I just don’t understand why parents don’t have super toned arms. They’re always carrying those heavy toddlers. It does not compute. Moms arms should be super toned!

  31. cloud&feather says:

    Not everyone is going to find the same thing motivating. I don’t know too many people who would respond positively to being asked “what’s your excuse?”

    First, why is it your business? It seems like that would be most people’s first question and then she’s already started out on the wrong foot.

    If it was to get attention, she certainly succeeded, though.

    Maybe…

    Because (for me, anyway), a Jillian Michaels DVD yielded the same results for about $10, so who would *need* this chick?

  32. Bethlynn says:

    I was happy for her personal success until she had to go and be a low-carb t.wat muffin about it. My excuse is that working out too much makes me angry. And while I may not have abs for days, I’d still take your man… (that was a bit middle school, I know, but I feeling douchey this am)

  33. Isa says:

    What do anyone’s excuses have to do with her? She wants to be inspirational but she’s not. And that was a major non-apology. She won’t mention it but yet she did. I think she has issues.

    I wonder if she has any friends?

    But that picture of her sleeping with her kids is really cute. Looks like our bed, minus a kid.

  34. MavenTheFirst says:

    Typical narcissist.

  35. Kiddo says:

    I get it. SO here’s my First and Final Apology:

    I’m sorry you took an image and resonated with it in such a negative way.

    Basically, I’m not sorry. Why bother? Why not just say, “I’m not sorry”? This type of shit is more annoying than her desperate act for attention. She wants you to examine why you aren’t in shape, but she doesn’t want to examine that she is basically an unapologetic self-marketing tool. At least own it, if you want others to own their weight or fitness level. Can’t have it both ways.

  36. Kelly says:

    My excuse is I don’t want to spend my life focused on myself instead of the world around me.

  37. Eve says:

    Well, you know how this is going to end, right? With her having her own reality show.

    • Kiddo says:

      Of course. We all know that sitting and watching reality shows gets you in shape.

    • Sloane Wyatt says:

      Please Gawd, no, Eve! The last thing the world needs is another ‘Freakshow Island’ reality show where Maria Kang does ‘Wife Swap’ with Courtney Stodden.

      • j Annie d says:

        yep thinking the same thing wife swap or with Honey boo boo mom. lol… or balloon boys fam …. ha ha!!!! bunch or weirdos!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

  38. Blanca Guizar says:

    I saw her picture on instagram as well as other. I do like “what’s your excuse” post in other situations like people complaining about their iphones when others don’t have food and that’s fine. But this woman makes me go bonkers (loca crazy). Who is she to tell you how to look… Seriously. And she ain’t that hot either 😛

  39. Merritt says:

    My excuse is that I don’t want to look like her. That is not my personal physical ideal. It is also not my ideal to be a shallow, insecure and emotionally immature jerk like she clearly is showing herself to be.

    I work out to be healthy not to achieve “hotness”.

    • Steph says:

      I do too. I started working out in an attempt to control my seizures. (My doctor suggested it.) They have improved and along the way…I sort of got into it. Along with everybody else I thought it was a Big Lie that anybody could get addicted to exercise — but you can. It’s the endorphins.

  40. poppy says:

    my excuse is that i’m not orange and will never be as orange as she is.
    she needs to learn what would actually motivate a person. oh wait, that’s not what she was trying to accomplish.

  41. truthful says:

    When will folks stop worrying about “others” and do THEM…

    cause HER goals are NOT mine, I workout at MY level and I look the best I can look.

    NEWSFLASH

    everyone does not want to look like her and frankly I could care less about her and HER goals for others.

    she wanted the attention and now she has it.

  42. umyeah says:

    Let’s turn the tables around. If a guy posted a picture like this and said the same thing as her, would people still be up in arms about this? Other people have done far worse things than her. I’m kinda happy her website and she is getting so much free publicity. I don’t think her message of being fit is a bad one. The way she is going about it is kind of obnoxious, but people are always making excuses. Including myself.

    • Merritt says:

      She is not promoting fitness, she is promoting herself. People who genuinely want to promote fitness and health go about it in a different way. For example Michelle Obama and the Let’s Move campaign. Or Jessica Smith of 10 Pounds Down.

  43. Bodhi says:

    Here is the comment I posted on another site about this

    Whats my excuse? Well, I could list them all (some are valid, some are only sorta valid) but why should I? What the fuck is it to her? Shit like this & all the other “fitspo” crap on FB & Pinterest don’t motivate me, it just makes me roll my eyes. Yeah she looks great, good for her. I’d love to have her body, but it will never happen, mostly because I am not built the way she is.

    Am I jealous? Hell yes. Do I feel shamed? Yeah, I’m not gonna lie, I do, a little. But this picture is the kind of thing an asshole does & I try not to pay much attention to assholes. Besides, if I showed my husband this picture & told him I wanted to look like her, he’d gently lead me to the couch, check me over for head injuries, & hand me a double bourbon. He is smarter than I am & ignores this shit completely

  44. Apples says:

    As an Interior Designer I am more offended by her house. Holy cr@p that place is bad.

  45. Delta Juliet says:

    **sigh**

    My sister is exactly like this. Right down to the three kids, the obsession with appearance, the need for attention and the narcissistic attitude. She recently put a bunch of pictures on FB of herself in next to nothing (actually she does it all the time) with the caption “What’s your excuse”. This is a woman who doesn’t work, and spends her days at the gym while her kids are in school. It took everything I had to not say “bitch, my excuse is 40+ hours of my time are spent at work, and the rest is taking care of my kids because their dad is never around”. I hate that “what is your excuse” bullshit.

    For the record, I work out regularly too, but my “regularly” is in the approximately 2 hours of free time I have in a week. I’m not going to look like that in 2 hours a week. And I’m ok with that.

    • TheOriginalKitten says:

      “She recently put a bunch of pictures on FB of herself in next to nothing (actually she does it all the time) with the caption “What’s your excuse”. ”

      Oh my O_O. That’s….embarrassing.

      And you bring up a good point about genetics-there’s only so much all of us can do with our respective body types.
      It’s healthier to aspire to be active and generally healthy then to aspire to have an unattainable body.

      • Tiffany :) says:

        “It’s healthier to aspire to be active and generally healthy then to aspire to have an unattainable body.”

        Exactly! Being healthy doesn’t always mean you will look great in a bikini. Looking great in a bikini doesn’t mean that you are healthy, either!

  46. HK9 says:

    I have lost weight, gained weight, lost weight, gained weight and lost it again. I am now mature enough to know that all it takes is one injury/chronic disease/death of a loved one to fuck with your life and your weight so I’ve stopped comparing myself with others, pointing out other faults (most of the time) and just enjoying the fact that my ass is still on the planet. And you know what~life is great.

    Makes me wonder what effect she would have on others if she spent some time doing the emotional heavy lifting to deal with her lack of compassion, so she’d be pretty on the inside too.

  47. Algernon says:

    Well, I mean, look. It is a choice. Within certain bounds, there are things you cannot change about yourself, and some people do have serious genetic issues that lead to obesity, but for the vast majority of people, it is a choice. I choose to work out, or I choose to sit on my ass and eat pizza. I could be thinner than I am, if I committed to a couple more trips to the gym a week, and ate less cake, but I’m okay with the extra poundage and at this point in my life, fitness is more about not having a stroke than fitting into a spandex mini-skirt.

    The problem with this lady, and people like Tracy Anderson, is that their “message” is as much about body shaming as it is fitness. I would like for someone to come out and say that fitness isn’t about being a certain number, it’s about how you feel and whether or not your health is preventing you from doing the things you want to do in life, and that you need to choose for yourself what your goals and aspirations are.

    • Relli says:

      YES!

    • Ginger says:

      Thank you! And Jillian Micheals does say things like this and truly tries to motivate people to have a better life all around…not just lose weight. Which is why I listen to her and not Tracy Anderson.

    • Tiffany :) says:

      I think if her focus was more on health and actual fitness, it would be better received.

      Looking great in a bikini doesn’t mean you are healthy.

      Being healthy doesn’t always mean you will look great in a bikini. She seems to miss this.

  48. Relli says:

    What is the deal with all these people and their “SORRY BUT NOT SORRY STATEMENTS.” This and the chick yesterday on Gawker who didn’t want to apologize anymore for being rich. I mean have humility and grace been completely lost.

    Maybe I don’t understand because I was never raised brag about myself or speak badly to those who are less fortunate in any way. This to me screams of self-promotion and frankly a bored mommy looking for a little attention… from anyone.

  49. UsedToBeLulu says:

    I don’t see any fat shaming. I like that she’s not afraid to show her krinkly baby belly skin in the bikini shot.

  50. Jinx says:

    Hmmm… Except for jogging next to my kids bikes (!), I did all the things she lists in her poster. But I still didn’t look like her. I was pretty. I was energetic. But I still didn’t look like her. She’s confusing appearance with ability.

    • cloud&feather says:

      …and genetics. Not everyone is going to look the same, even if they have the same level of fitness.

  51. Crabcake says:

    She said nothing offensive. The vast majority of people who are overweight are that way because they make excuses and the number one excuse is pregnancy/children. This is fact and I’ll never apologise if facts hurt someone’s feelings.

    All that said, there are different variables in everyone’s lives that makes certain excuses more challenging for some people than others. (Eg. A mother to 3 children whose husband just died, or a mother to 3 children who are autistic etc.) But overall, her point was bang on.

  52. Shauna says:

    My excuse was Cushing’s disease and I’m sick of people judging me because of one facet of my existence. I’ve since lost 150 pounds but it’s devestating to become less of a person just because of weight. The first time a man (other than family) held a door open was post surgery. I cried because I was finally noticed. And that’s why these holier than thou ‘motivations’ are wrong.

    http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000348.htm

  53. Nicolette says:

    She looks great, and that’s fine for her. As for her list posted next to her pic detailing what she does all day, umm sorry but ALL mom’s do that stuff. Everyday. Doesn’t mean we’re gonna look like her. I’d bet she was was naturally thin before she ever got pregnant and probably carried small and lost the weight in a snap. Some women are lucky like that. Some like me, know that there seems to be those 10-15 pounds that just don’t seem to want to come off no matter what. She just comes off sounding judgmental because we all don’t have the body she does.

  54. RobN says:

    Personally, I think she’s just telling people to be honest with themselves. We all know people who ate like crazy while pregnant, make no effort to lose it after the birth, and when the kid is five years old, they’re still telling people they can’t get their body back because they had a baby. The truth is that they never tried. If it’s not important to you, then fine, but just be honest about it and don’t use your child as your excuse. I’ve got a lot more respect for the woman who tells me she just loves pie and owns it.

  55. Ginger says:

    She looks good and I commend her for making fitness a priority (Or THE priority?) in her life. We all have different priorities in our lives. I have a child, a day job at which I work 10 hours each day (and commute is an hour) AND my hubby and I run our own business. It is TOUGH to find the time to workout no matter what Maria says…is she skimping on sleep? Sorry, SLEEP is my priority. And taking care of my mental health…which does include being kind to myself by eating right and fitting in exercise where I can but I’m not a gym rat, never have been and never will be. I may not look like her but I know I’m healthy. For her to judge other mom’s because they aren’t obsessed with exercise is just rude. When I was pregnant I watched what I ate, gave up caffeine (which SUCKED!) and exercised until the doctors put me on bed rest for pre eclampsia. She needs to keep in mind that some women are not lucky enough to sail through their pregnancies without complications. It took me a long time to recover after my son’s traumatic birth too. Hence, it took about a year to lose the baby weight. At this point in my life I’ve realized that you can’t really know what struggles people are going through by just looking at them. She is silly and not motivating at all.

    • Kiddo says:

      Her job is fitness, as best as I can tell. So if an instructor of an exercise class has time for exercise, is that a surprise? If the paid head of a charity spends more time in charity, should that be a surprise? When you make something your life’s work, how do you ask others to reasonable assess their time to the same endeavor?

  56. Elizabeth says:

    Ugh, enough already. We go on & on about people body shaming Melissa McCarthy’s weight but then I see folks on twitter calling LeAnn Rimes fat for gaining 10 pounds. And now we are offended by someone who is fit posting pics of themselves? She makes a valid point in saying if you choose not to be fit that is often (not always) an excuse. Can we please just stop the body shaming completely? Skinny, chubby, fat, whatever. If you are happy in your own skin so be it. If you’re not then that’s your business & your choice to do something about it or not.

    • SummersReign says:

      Thank you Elizabeth! women…..we are our own worste enemies and our own worste critics!! sheesh.

      I dont know why there is always so much excitement by women when other women choose to highlight their own bodies whether slim, fit, lean, curvy, nude, fully clothed…. its not logical at all and totally uncalled for IMHO

    • Susan says:

      No, we are offended by the snotty condescension implicit in the rude, “What’s your excuse?” As if anyone who doesn’t look like her is automatically inferior: lazy, uncaring, what-have-you. The person who previously responded to you agreed with you, saying “Women are our own worst enemies.” I agree – but put this woman among *those*. SHE is the problem, not those of us offended by her attitude!

  57. Jane says:

    Well…sometimes things are more obnoxious than straight up offensive. This is obnoxious on fire.

  58. tarheel tina says:

    “. It’s hard enough to exercise regularly and stay motivated.”

    disagree CB. You find your motivation and decide if ______ (your excuse) is really more valid than your health and appearance.

    There is always an hour in any day to get healthy. I get up at 4am because I dont have to be at work until 8 and between 4-5 I can get a work out in on my treadmill easy peasy. Some people aren’t willing to find that hour in their day.

    Im more offended by the obesity trend in elementary children more than anything else and all it comes down to is lifestyle choices of the parents setting these kids up for health problems.

  59. Stacey says:

    “Bitch, please!” was my first reaction too.

    So she runs a “fitness non profit”? What exactly is that? Is that what she calls her mid day jazzercise class? I can’t tell who or what she is trying to help or promote (besides herself) in this photo.

    So she runs a “fitness non profit” (aka her weekly jogging group with her mommy friends), hires a cheesy photographer, cakes on some classy porn star hair and make up, poses in her bra and puts a caption on her photo that begs for compliments. Then she says anyone who is interpreting the photo offensively can only blame themselves for thinking such bad thoughts. huh wha?? who do we blame if we think you are hot? oh wait that is ok. you want us to kiss your butt. THATS right.

    I am not some sedentary overweight hater Maria. I have been naturally tall & thin my whole life (thanks to genetics). I also work out with a trainer twice a week for years, run and take exercise classes (barre, yoga, dance) weekly as well. So, I love working out. I have taken my out of shape friends to the track, to my work out classes and talked fitness with them too. I never could imagine saying to one of my girlfriends, I’m skinny your fat what the heck is your excuse? SO rude. When I have worked out with them, its like….HOORAY-we ran one lap around the track! Or…HOORAY- we did 5 sit ups, thats better than no sit ups!!! Antagonizing fitness-wary people is sure fire way to make sure they never step foot in a gym. And different strokes for different folks. My trainer knows I am a foodie, I do NOT diet and I eat whatever I want (cinnabons, taco bell, pasta. I love junk food. Life is short, eat what you want is my motto!) He knows that is non negotiable for me. We still work out hard but I will never be a body builder and I am fine with that! I have my personal fitness goals as do everyone else. I don’t want to look like you, because I know the foods I would have to give up. I want to eat my penne pasta in my home made vodka sauce. Your level of fitness works for you, my level of fitness works for me. It is not an excuse, it is a CHOICE.

    This Maria Kang is all about being an attention whore, fishing for compliments, and labeling anyone who thinks she sucks as some kind of hater. Firstly, I can’t stand famewhores. And she is a famewhore. Clearly. I also hate it when GROWN women take pathetic “Look at me look at me!” bikini photos and post them online like that idiot Leann Rimes. Or like teenage girls on instagram. But I can forgive the teenage girls on instagram because their brains aren’t even fully developed. What is YOUR excuse Maria Kang?

    I would humbly suggest you use that time in the gym for some college level education because you are beyond transparent my dear. Thank god you don’t have daughters.

    • SummersReign says:

      What a bitter rant!

      • stacey says:

        I’m sorry I’m not bitter but I have a real problem with people who hijack a worthy cause to stroke their own ego and get their name in the press. In this case, she is doing this in the “name” of health and fitness.

        She just wants her 15 minutes of fame! To pretend she actually cares about the fitness of anyone but herself is not authentic. Period.

        I have read her blog and it is just some rambling posts with some recipes that aren’t particularly healthy (lots of carbs). She is not a certified personal trainer, a nutrionist- nada. She is not qualified to have a platform to speak about what other people should do with their bodies. Period. end of story.

      • Tiffany :) says:

        I dont think she sounds bitter at all. She made strong points and had plenty to back it up with.

    • JuJuJen says:

      Wow, you are bitter! First off, your body NEEDS carbs in order for your muscles to use them for energy to work out! Second of all, who cares if she doesn’t have a degree in nutrition or whatever. What makes her qualified is her body and how healthy she is. Obviously she knows what she’s doing and she’s sharing her tips. Dang, go run and kill the bug up your butt, LOL

      • Stacey says:

        Im not bitter at all. And I ran a few miles and lifted weights with my trainer last night before I went to bed – thank you for the recommendation.

        Women are so obsessed with their bodies and how they LOOK. Maria Kang’s whole shtick is her body in her photos. Her message is not of health and empowerment- it is about being a sexy MILF. Come on, you have to agree there is more to life than being hot. Why dont we see Men half naked in spandex doing stupid photos like Maria’s surrounded by their kids and in their work clothes? Because the world doesnt objectify and value men based on their bodies.

        Listen, I am all about being fit. I am sure I probably work out more than you. But I dont make other women feel bad because they dont look like me. My fitness is a personal journey.

        As for her qualifications, she has none that I’m aware of. I prefer to get my health and fitness advice from professionals, not some condescending housewife with a blog and some sexy photos.

        By the way, her featured recipes are blueberry muffins and sweet potatoe fries? Reallll healthy. Talk about carb explosion. I never said carbs are bad but there are there are healthy carbs out there (legumes, vegetables) instead of french fries and muffins.

    • Madison says:

      Bravo to everything you said.

  60. BeefJerky says:

    I’m not offended in the least by what she said. Just because she makes time for herself and what SHE values doesn’t mean she’s a narcissist or a bad mom, or obsessed with fitness.

    And as for saying “no matter how many squats I do, my butt will always be flat” etc., –That IS an excuse. you CAN change your body. You’re just not working hard enough- but maybe you don’t really want to, so you tell yourself it’ll never BE that way.

    She also said nothing shaming about fat people who are fine being fat. Her message is for people who want to get fit but are somehow falling short. We all kid ourselves from time to time about how ‘we’re doing everything right!’…but then fail to see a half-assed elliptical session, or 4 beers, or not lifting til muscle failure as the actual problem.

    As a former fat person- I say good for her. And if you’re angry about her, it’s because you know she has a point.

    • Bedhead says:

      You’re so cute.

      I do squats several times per week. They don’t “unflat” my ass, but I do them anyway because they make me stronger and help me run faster during races. To me, running and working out is about feeling good, period. That is not an “excuse” because I’ll outrun the zombies one day. I average 40 miles per week of running. If you think that’s not trying hard or not caring enough, then fine. Looking “perfect” is not my priority. Being able to outrun judgy bitches like Maria IS my priority.

      • Stacey says:

        Love this!

        I am an extreme athlete in a male dominated sport. I dont work out to be sexy, I work out to be strong! Being thin & sexy won’t save my life in my sport. I value health and strength over Maria’s brand of sexy-centered fitness.

      • Tiffany :) says:

        Bedhead, it seems your focus is on health and fitness. Maria’s focus seems to be on appearance and “skinny”. I agree with your priorities a heck of a lot more!

  61. Fan says:

    There are many excuses okay. Not every woman has the resources, finances, time to devote to the kind of work up that she is doing. Most women are busy with their kids, trying to manage the households plus probably taking care of their elderly parents. Although, her intention is to help not to insult.

  62. karolina says:

    Of course it is important to be active and strengthen your body, because it is healthy. Everything done to tone specific body parts and obsess over a certain number on the scale is just vanity. Talking excessively about fitness and working out, unless it is your job, is just boring, dumb and superficial. I try to be active, most of the time it works out, but it is really not my top priority. I have such a demanding job where I need to use my use my brain and it simply leaves me not much time to do anything else. But somehow I contribute to society with what I do and this is way better than talking selfies of my abs which helps no one. So dear whateverhername is-get a life and real interests and hobbies!

  63. SummersReign says:

    Well, as a mother of two toddlers, I would love a nice fit bod…without the muffin top and jiggly jiggles. Maybe its genetics.

  64. Slap Dash says:

    this woman is all about the male gaze and female jealousy. hopefully her spawn will learn the true value of women other than eye candy trophy wives. i dont give a crap further about this shallow entitled idiot.

  65. Ana says:

    Her simple headline of “What’s your excuse?” suggests to the reader that there IS something wrong with them, that an ‘excuse’ for not looking like HER exists. There’s where the taking offense lies. It’s pompous and condescending.

  66. Little Darling says:

    Hmmm. I think this is more about attaining a goal than being skinny, although in her case it’s applied to a level of fitness.

    Everyone has personal goals, whether it’s being fit, being organized, achieving success Etc. And usually in ALL cases the reasons those are not achieved is because some part of ourselves isn’t trying or working hard to achieve those goals, or being resilient, changing patterns to make it happen.

    If your goal is to be fit and have a toned body you will find the time to work out, no matter what. You will NOT allow yourself an excise to not make it happen…you have kids, you have a job, you’re a single mom, broke etc…well, you will find a way to make the time. Waking at 4:30, walking during lunch, etc. No one is forcing you to do it, no one is fat shaming….if it’s important to you, whatever the goal may be, only you can hold yourself accountable and be honest with yourself that if it isn’t changing after a certain amount of time you probably aren’t as committed to it as you personally can be.

    We can do crazy things to self sabotage happiness for ourselves and sometimes “I can’t” or excuses are our way to inhibit change or growth that is needed. But it is possible, and if you want something hard enough you will hold yourself personally accountable to giving 100% or more.

  67. Cait says:

    She’s hot. Good for her. But that slogan seems to imply that my priorities as a mother are off-kilter, simply because I don’t look like her.

    So what’s my excuse? I have 2 children under 2 – one of whom I gave birth to 11 weeks ago, I work 50-60 hours a week, I volunteer, I’m a wife who runs a household and I also have the inauspicious joy of acting as administrator on my later mother’s estate. Yay, me?

    So okay, I’ll own that I’m 10 lbs overweight and that my curves are pretty soft. I’ll even own my insecurity about my body.

    But when your marketing strategy relies on smug provocation, that’s just not sustainable. It’s just not. And responding to a backlash with a condescending sorry-not sorry approach shows that she really, REALLY needs some media training.

    What’s my excuse? My excuse is that while my health is important to me, I don’t need to look like a Hollywood actress or personal trainer at the expense of time with my husband and kids.

  68. Lisa says:

    Ugh, the way this lady presented the original picture is what turned me off. Presuming that, just because everyone doesn’t look like her, means those people only have “excuses” as reasons.

    I have no children, and I don’t look like her. If there were a way to look like her that didn’t require me to take time and energy away from things that matter a lot more to me than being superfit, sure, I would do it.

    However, I live in reality, and I know that being superfit requires you to make it a consistent priority in your life. I also know I’m not willing to make fitness that kind of priority. I have other things I value more. For me, exercise is a way to reduce my risk for heart disease and diabetes, maintain a steady weight, and maintain strength and flexibility as I age. For me, any additional effort beyond reaching those goals is wasted because it takes time and energy away from other things I enjoy more.

    She looks great, for sure, but just because other people don’t make looking like her a life priority doesn’t mean they are just using excuses.

  69. It'sJustBlanche says:

    I work out 6 days a week and at least 2 of those days I work out twice. It’s just how I am. I don’t expect anyone to be like me or enjoy it like I do. I also have a job that allows me a ton of flexibility so I can go take a class or run during the day if I want. Having said that, I will never have a body like that without starving myself. I’m curvy, always have been, even when I’ve weighed 95 pounds (not my finest hour) and I really just like food and myself too much to not have a donut if I want it.

    HEre’s what I don’t get: Why hasn’t anyone called her out that that top picture is completely photoshopped?

  70. Mirna says:

    Because I have better things to do with my time than work out incessantly, beyotch! I should go on her website and post pictures of my JD, my admission to the NY Bar, my publications, my book and my talk show and say “what’s your excuse?” Obviously, whatever you prioritize is what you will get.

    • Stacey says:

      Love this. Not everyone aspires to be a MILF. There are other equally, dare I say MORE important things to do in this life.

      Whats a JD btw?

    • Tiffany :) says:

      Your comment is awesome!

      To quote scream, “Bam! Bitch went down!”

      I think if she focused on health (as opposed to looking skinny), people wouldn’t have been so upset. I do think health is important, but you can be healthy and not be a swimsuit model. Her focus seems to be on the appearance and not the health.

    • TheOriginalKitten says:

      …except saying that you have “better things to do” with your time is pretty much exactly the same thing she’s saying.

      Whether you invest your time in furthering your education or working out, the point is that it’s a personal choice, one really isn’t “better” than the other just because you deem it to be.

      • msm says:

        What’s “better” is up to interpretation. My education and knowledge will be with me for the rest of my life. It also sets a great example for my kids. Her focus on vanity and her six pack will only last as long as she can remain looking like that. And I really don’t see many 60 year olds with six packs.

      • TheOriginalKitten says:

        Well…ok.

        I applaud you for working your ass off to get your degrees and you are rightly proud of that, but I still stand by what I said.

        Exercise isn’t always about vanity. For myself, I run for my mental sanity-it’s my greatest coping mechanism. Running is a stress reliever, a release, and running has gotten me through some of the toughest times in my life. As far as weight-training goes, I weight-train because I like being strong. As an independent woman who’s lived alone for many years, I like feeling like I can protect myself and I like that I can haul 7 bags of groceries at a time up 3 flights of stairs. I also like that I can break into a full-on sprint to catch the bus or train without getting out of breath. Being healthy affects all aspects of a person’s life and to make it just about one’s physical appearance misses the mark IMO.

        My point is that something that may seem superfluous or vain to you isn’t necessarily so. I just wish as women we could chill with the judgment and support each other no matter how we choose to use our free time. You might beat me at a test, but I might smoke you in a race, neither of us is *better than* the other for it. There’s plenty of room on this planet for strong, healthy women and strong, intelligent women and many women who are both.

      • Claudia says:

        Well said, Kitten.

  71. some bitch says:

    UUUGH. Get off your high horse, lady. I know somebody who lost a ton of weight by drinking ‘shakes’ sold through a pyramid scheme and now it’s the only thing this person ever talks about. Crappy weight loss shakes and how long they spend in the gym and how everybody else is full of excuses.

    My “excuse” is that I took a medication notorious for weight gain, and guess what, I put on a ton of weight! It’s not something I’m happy about but I’m losing the weight slowly while still enjoying the occasional chicken wings and beer. I’m sorry if my approach to getting back into shape while still enjoying myself offends you.

    Bah. A part of me hopes fitness junkies riding on a high horses get knocked down and put on 50 pounds.

    • JuJuJen says:

      But at least you’re doing something about it and losing the weight, right? That’s the entire point of her post. I don’t think she’s judging people with a real medical issue. Don’t be so blah, you’ll get there and when you have arrived, you will look great, too!

    • Havik says:

      I have to agree with you. Especially about the exercising but still enjoying chicken wings! (I have a serious weakness for those things)

      I’m overweight, but still manage a good 45 minutes of running and at least half an hour of pilates. Conversely, I have a cousin who is thin, with a small, flat, stomach not unlike Maria Kang. Said cousin, though she looked thin and lovely, could barely make it up a flight of stairs. We went to the gym together once and she gave up about two reps into multiple exercises because it was ‘too hard’. (I should mention she does indeed live a sedentary lifestyle, complete with many junk foods and sugary drinks)
      I guess this bugs because it makes me think back to school, when people praised my cousin for her body and laughed at mine (though mine could run up several flights of stairs and through the hallways without leaving me a wheezy, red-faced, achy mess.)

      I agree that making excuses to avoid fitness can be dangerous, but putting out the message that it’s about looking hot rather than being healthy doesn’t benefit anybody. (Or perhaps, like I said, it’s just sour grapes for me 😉

      • MonicaQ says:

        That’s what kills me. I’m in shape like a lineman because that’s what I do. I can’t run very far (I think I have a 15 minute mile no matter what) but I bench over half my body weight. Meanwhile, I go shopping with my super skinny friends and it’s a nightmare. I just usually end up quiet and not buying anything.

  72. mar says:

    I think she is trying to motivate people. There real is no excuse , IF YOU WANT IT.

    My excuse is I am kind of lazy and my hair looks like as$ after a workout.

  73. Ari says:

    my excuse is i could give a flying f*ck

  74. jojo says:

    my excuse is i have no money. Excercising that much, and the breasts are the first to go. If i only had extra $$$ to pay for enhancements so i’d still look like a woman, i’d excercise like a crazy person as well….

  75. Ok says:

    She and that Samantha Brick chick should get together and discuss how much better they are than other people.

    Lets check in with them at age 50 to see how well they are holding up.

    And what is her excuse for not hanging up anything on the walls in her home and having an entire room devoid of furniture ?? ( see pic with hubby)

  76. HeatherN says:

    Yawn. Better to look good than to have a full life. I’m sorry the undercurrent here is that she’s better than others because she focuses on herself much more than other moms. Sorry, not buying it. Shall I state the obvious that I’d be very surprised if this woman is a single mother juggling everything including a job and finances; so few of us can afford to devote two hours at the gym daily, it is, sadly a self indulgent restricted to upper class women and stay at home wives. Money and time, all I’m saying. I’d love to have that be my primary thing, I think I’d be hot too.

  77. Majicou says:

    She’s a winner of the genetics lottery. Fuck her.

  78. Tiffany :) says:

    I do think that, especially in the US, we DO need reminders that health and fitness need to be part of all of our lives because we are literally killing ourselves and harming our children with the current status quo (heard a story about the new kids breakfast craze being flaming hot Cheetos and cream cheese!)

    However, I think her message would have been better received if she focused on HEALTH and not SKINNY. However, I doubt that her message would have been heard if it wasn’t a bit offensive in some way. Society amplifies outrage, ignores agreement it seems.

  79. MsAubra says:

    I’m not sure I would have called this “fitness bullying”. HOWEVER, this is where people FAIL bigtime when it comes to social media and ego marketing. It wasn’t her intent to indulge in ego marketing, but that’s what it was. Its kind of hard for her not to since she’s a trainer. Had she said “I have no excuses” it would have still been ego marketing, but I don’t think there would have been AS much of a shit storm. she does this for a living, so her being fit with three kids isn’t really putting her in the same realm as moms who work other kinds of jobs and who have three or more kids…

  80. Jackie Jormp Jomp (formerly Zelda) says:

    I grew up and learned not to be totally vain. What’s your excuse?

  81. booboobird says:

    bitch, please.
    nothing wrong with appearing fit but don’t be all look-how-awesome-i-look-and-pay-attention-i-have-three-kids-UNDER-five-and-how-awesome-i-look. ugh. can’t with people like that. and the apology. uhhh, she has some serious chip on her shoulder(well, nothing’s better than some added weight when doing squats, right?).
    the secret of a happy life is everything in moderation!
    put that in your protein shake and drink it
    p.s. i can lug my kids carseats around and chase them or their bikes and move furniture without looking like a gym bunny
    p.p.s. the more i look at the picture, the more photoshopped it seems.

  82. Lflips says:

    Maria Kang – what’s your excuse for not fully “exercising” your mental capacities?

  83. Meg says:

    speaking as someone who experienced lots of criticism, i do not get fired up and respond positively to it. It doesn’t get me going, it makes me feel bad and i dislike myself more. women are mean enough to themselves in this society, even motherhood and been turned into a competition. More criticism is not needed.

    • j Annie d says:

      you are right on…. I don’t need to hear garbage. My dues have been paid as a 41 year old woman. Also will probably have more mountains to move. I have had enough of the shitty friend syndrome. Don’t like me don’t look. the crappy women get mad because they don’t have a fat friend to go with them to the soda shop to sink our feelings. This woman needs so mental help like so many others. Like Kim K and her mom weren’t enough. exhausting!!!!!!!!!!!

  84. RHONYC says:

    ~Nicole Murphy has 5 kids

    ~Victoria Beckham has 4 kids

    ~Heidi Klum has 4 kids

    ~my deceased great aunt had 13 kids & a 23″ waist

    this chick snatched back after 3 kids. good 4 her. big woop. 🙄

    p.s.~ nice belly wrinkles 😎

  85. nikkie says:

    If you are fat and see this picture and feel ashamed, it’s not her fault. You are ashamed for a reason and that reason is because you are fat. I see no problems with this.
    I see that photo and yeah, I agree, she’s got 3 kids, so what is my excuse for during on my ass eating ice cream?

    No controversy here except that apparently she is supposed to soothe the conscious of every fat person who saw this photo and was offended because she basically held a mirror up and they didn’t like what they saw.

    • Leila in Wunderland says:

      Taking time off from your pro-ana site, Nikkie?

      “You are ashamed for a reason and the reason is you are fat.”

      I’m not even fat and I have a problem with it because this shallow, self-righteous shrew (ha!) is single-handedly contributing to our misogynistic culture of body-policing, both in the message over her picture and in the message in her letter. Ironically, she admits that she used to have an eating disorder. It’s little wonder why women and girls both inside and outside of Hollywood have body image issues, and teens and kids bully other kids for their weight.

  86. Alexis says:

    My feeling about her is whatever. She is cute. The babies are cute. good for her. I’m not hating nor am I celebrating. I do me. She does her. But I rolled my eyes so hard, I dang near saw my brain at all that “What I won’t say” talk in her bullfeces apology. She can go have a seat with all that.

  87. Dorothu says:

    People who say she is fat shaming are ashamed of their fatsimpke as as that this is motivational picture. Get over yourself. You do more fat t shaming than anyone

    • Itsa Reallyme says:

      The caption on her photo is what is offensive. To say, “What’s your excuse?” is immediately implying that everyone looking at the picture is not as fit (or wonderful) as she is. I think it’s great that she takes care of herself but if her job is to motivate people, then she’s failed because she’s done the opposite.

  88. Vee says:

    Good for her, you go girl. You are a success and don’t let folks get you down. Work hard, strive and achieve in whatever area you can. That’s her message and I support it. 🙂

    I’d also like to add that due to the failure that is upon us called ObamaCare we need to take a much more proactive role in our health and lifestyle. Our health care choices are getting severely reduced, so start taking care of your bodies now.

    • Anon33 says:

      Do you even know what obamacare is???? I have several friends in the restaurant/bar and beauty industries that are getting health care for the first time in their lives due to it. It is not reducing choices-that is misinformation.

    • stacey says:

      Are you serious??

      Do you want everyone to have health insurance?

      Do you think it’s a good idea that insurance companies cannot deny anyone coverage based on prexisting conditions?

      Do you think poor people should get assistance from the goverment in paying for their health care premium?

      Do you think large companies, that employ over 50 employees, should offer health insurance to their employees? Do you think small businesses should get a tax credit if they pay for enough of their employee’s insurance premiums?

      Do you think the insurance companies should clarify their coverage limits, deductibles and plan details such that it is easier to compare quotes from different companies?

      Do you want a “one stop shop” website where you can compare multiple insurance policies at once based on the same metrics?

      If you said yes to any of these, then you want Obamacare!

      Please educate yourself!

  89. DB says:

    This bitch. Ugh. I’m a dancer and a fitness instructor and I would NEVER EVER utter that phrase to any of my students. I think working out is fun. Not everyone does. It’s my job to make them enjoy the work outs they have time to get in,to make them stronger, to motivate them. It’s NOT my job to make anyone feel bad about themselves. And if you do that as a fitness professional, then you’re NOT doing your damn job and you’re making the rest of us look like the narcissist you are.

    • Dimebox says:

      Yes!!! I would never want a fitness instructor like her. I would feel like she is too busy admiring herself in the mirror to give encouragement and helpful pointers to others. I love teachers like you who motivate their classes but never shame. One session with Maria would be one too many for me.

  90. Mabs says:

    Pfft, she answered her own fracking question. “I’m in the fitness business.” And there you have it folks, she’s ignorant and enjoys the smell of her own farts.

  91. SuSu says:

    her boys are cute

  92. Sachi says:

    If Maria Kang’s exercise routine works for her, then congratulations. She’s a fitness instructor so this kind of image is probably in line with her job. It’s her job to motivate people and the image should go along with her career.

    I think it depends on the person how they would interpret the photo. Personally, I thought she looked good. On the other hand, it didn’t really make me feel any more motivated to get back to doing Zumba after skipping out for 3 weeks.

    I think she looks good. That’s it. I don’t feel “shamed” by her photo but I can see how others will have a different interpretation.

    I didn’t get diagnosed with PCOS and advised to lose weight until 8 months ago, but I’ve already decided I needed to shed the pounds to be healthier a year ago, and I was exercising several times a week and changed my diet altogether. I’ve achieved results and I like how my body looks now.

    I don’t really see the need to post photos to show how much weight I’ve lost, nor do I see any reason to question other people’s lifestyles.

    The only time I said something about someone’s weight was when my cousin was rushed to the hospital because she fainted and was diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol due to being overweight, drinking, and smoking. She is only 24 years old and really needed a huge dose of reality about her situation and how her lifestyle needs drastic changes.

    But the only goal for her, and for myself as well, is to be healthy and well, not overly toned and fit.

  93. Jillian says:

    Is it just me or does it look like she has a peni$ in the blue bikini pic?

    Somethings winking at me!

    Not a great pose for married mother of three!

  94. Slap Dash says:

    these funking stupid mommy wars.

    • Isabelle says:

      ….and as a single girl we just compete in other ways. Women are often catty and seems we never outgrow it unless we purposely strive to stop it.

  95. Size Does Matter says:

    I hate that we aren’t any more advanced as a society. How one looks physically has little or nothing to do with one’s value as a human being. Will we ever prize our bodies for what they are capable of rather than what they look like? Appreciate your body for what it is at present – it will change, even if only by growing older.

  96. paranormalgirl says:

    She needs to get over herself. I have an MD, a PhD, I work 60 hours a week, just got married, I’m a step mom, and I run marathons. I would never ask another woman what her problem is if she doesn’t do the same things I do. We’re all different, we all make our own choices, and not everyone can or wants to be a fitness paragon.

  97. Isabelle says:

    A lot of women are fitness shaming. Its no different than body shaming. There are tons of web sites dedicated to celebrating women of a larger size. We give them the thumbs up but hate on women that want to stay fit? When as women do we decide to leave the mean girl phase, can’t we just all get along?

    • j Annie d says:

      I know it is too much for me after dealing with the psychology of this mommy crap. barf… My “friends” ratio went down after 37 and now no how people start this garbage. You don’t know how many people dump you once your mind takes control over superficial people and their words. My life has been 100x’s better than anyone. I wake up thank God i’m here. Look for work , do the best I can and drink juice and water then live.

  98. L.S. says:

    Good for her! But I wonder how happy her her marriage and children really are? If they are, great! But hubby isn’t super-convincing in the above pic.

    My excuse is lack of desire. Even if I did have the extra time to work out, I would choose to do something else. That’s just being honest.

  99. AmyB says:

    It is a shame our society is so divided. We (society) bash overweight people, condone such an un realistic thin standard, yet then when some in Hollywood achieve that they must have an eating disorder. It is exhausting and a terrible message to young women. I think this woman looks great, must have a great support system to maintain that lifestyle. She is also a recovered (recovering eating disordered person), as am I. I had anorexia for about ten years in my twenties. I try to maintain balance now in my life, and although I have been super active in my life before, been through a touch period of depression in the past year, and have not been active or taking care of myself. But that is my life. Although I am recovered from my anorexia, I would not want to put on others my ideas of what you should do. What works for me works for me. Maybe not for you. I think this woman got a bit more slack than she deserved, but I would be really careful of people admitting they had disordered eating once to give advice. I know I don’t 🙂 Healthy and moderation is all I will say!!

  100. Asdfg says:

    What?

    Out of all the people on the internet THIS woman is being called out? Can we atleast call out the sickos instead of the “perfect” 🙄 mother of 3? Whether anyone wants to believe it there are some disturbed people on the internet. This woman is the least of my worries.

    I don’t think Maria Kang was trying to offend anyone. Maybe motivate.

  101. Miss Jupitero says:

    I think it is better karma to inspire rather than shame. Her smug attitude is pretty hard to take, and I’m naturally rather skinny.

    Completely turning around your approach to fitness is a lot of work and very intimidating for a lot of people. That picture and that caption doesn’t encourage: it’s a smack down.

    There is a book out there whose title I forget… The Fat Slow Triathlete or something. Written by a man who knows he is not going to be taking any gold medals but does it anyway, as a gift to himself. THAT sort of approach actually helps people.

  102. Itsa Reallyme says:

    Oh please lady. Do you really think that women who don’t look like you can’t do all the things you put on your beach picture? I run after all of my kids and cart things to soccer games and play with all of my kids and clean my house, etc, etc, etc. I also work a full time job. Nobody is paying me to work out 8 hours a day.
    You’re right. I am responsible for the thoughts that are in my head and right now I’m thinking that you are a very self centered, self righteous, shallow and boring ding dong. I have no interest in having people in my life that do nothing but talk about how GREAT they are and how everyone is jealous of them. I wouldn’t wish to be you because it seems that you only value one thing—-outer beauty. How sad and simple and alone you must feel.

  103. bernerlover says:

    I am in my forties and look like I am in my early thirties. I work out and take really good care of my body. I would never put pics of myself up on facebook dresses liked that and then ask people what their excuse was not to look like me. It’s narcissistic and condescending. Not everyone thinks you’re so damn wonderful just because you’re in shape. Whoppee di do da. It doesn’t make you a better person because you work out.

    • maggie says:

      I agree with her! Plus I resent having to pay for fat lazy people’s hospital bills! It’s a person’s responsibility to take care of themselves so the rest of us don’t have to.

  104. MeganDraper says:

    She has pulled skin in that one picture. wow! I still think what she did was good. Too many people in this country are fat. I workout. I’m not thin-thin but I’m not fat either. I like to eat and drink too.

  105. drea says:

    I don’t see how this is a big deal. So she’s a person who’s really into the way she looks and is not above fat-shaming other folks. Have people really not gotten this gung-ho fitness stuff from athletes and exercise guru-types before? Or seen any of those low-budget testimonial-type ads for fitness gadgets? “What’s your excuse?” is so not original. My trainer says meaner “motivational” crap than that.

  106. Leila in Wunderland says:

    Yippee! More body-shaming. Just what our misogynistic culture needs!

    What a sanctimonious bitch. You’d think that as someone who used to have an eating disorder, she’d know better, but I guess not. Her letter is just as bad as the original picture. It’s like a person making a homophobic or sexist statement, people reacting to it, and the person saying that they did nothing wrong.

  107. Santolina says:

    That was a sincere and heartfelt apology NOT!

  108. BourgBourg says:

    I like her non-apology; she shouldn’t need to defend herself in the least. The backlash is absolutely ridiculous and a negative response to such a caption is certainly the fault of one’s self. I hate how a woman displaying confidence and self-assurance is always misconstrued. Always. I can’t believe people are actually calling her a bitch. She really isn’t fat shaming, I say that as someone who is larger and know fat-shaming in all its forms. It’s no different than any caption for a Nike or Adidas advert.

    It’s hilarious to me that people revere someone like Jillian Michaels on the Biggest Loser, but somehow this is too much?

    • trudibell says:

      Because Jillian Michaels has perfected the concept of “tough love” and actually helps people instead of just cutting them down. This woman, apparently had back to back children and is able to to have a perfect body eight months post-partum? That’s not realistic, even for a woman who gains a healthy amount of weight while pregnant – unless she’s a personal trainer (like this woman) or has an excess of time and money after the baby’s born (like a celebrity). For someone who works a full time job not at the gym, or someone who may have a baby with colic or other issues, getting the perfect body back within a year of having the baby is really unrealistic, even if they aren’t lazy.

  109. Eileen says:

    What’s her excuse for her narcissism and vanity? Remember that magazine cover with the Mother breast feeding her child asking “Are you mom enough?” or something asinine like that? This is no different-I saw a clip of this moronic woman on the news the other day and they were ass kissing her and she ate it up with two inches of makeup on her face-she needs a shrink not more attention

  110. marjiscott says:

    Because my feet were amputated, you dumb Ass!

  111. Dommy Dearest says:

    Uh, if she really wants to act like that then she’s going to get the harsh comments. Her body is good but not great. There are many mothers that have a better body than this asshole but they don’t have a pretentious attitude about it. Being fit is a choice and she shouldn’t be shaming anyone. If she wants to look down her nose I will too. Her stomach needs some work as you can clearly tell with her slouching- that sand only highlights it. She needs to add some curves versus looking like a twelve year old boy.

    These bitches, I swear.

  112. Kath says:

    OK, so she has ‘fitness goals’. Great. Does she have other types of goals that possibly might prevent someone from working out 5 hours a day? Say, studying to improve her education? Or is her worth all about her physical appearance and her kids, rather than a career/identity outside the home?

    Fine if it is, but then don’t diss women who work in an office 10 hours a day and study at night. Not all goals are about fitness.

    Incidentally that list of “my job to be fit” makes motherhood sound like hell.

  113. buzzie says:

    she owns two residential care homes for the elderly, so she basically has her own business that’s not related to fitness training or working out. i don’t understand why people are making a big deal over what she said. to assume that she is dumb or lacks education is very judgmental as well.

    • Brittney says:

      She might have business smarts, but she lacks some very, VERY basic knowledge of human history and psychology, not to mention grammar and spelling. I didn’t see anyone assuming that she’s dumb or lacks education, but I could pretty much surmise her education level from a quick read-through of her post above. She capitalizes random letters, pluralizes words by tacking apostrophes onto the end of them, and is completely oblivious to the social and psychological implications of her message. She’s directly contributing to the misogynistic, unrealistic ideals of “perfection” that have suppressed women for centuries… that their motherhood or womanhood can be measured by how they look on the outside. It’s pathetic.

  114. cowgirl27 says:

    Just another mean girl bully – now she is on a poster. Love the picture in the blue bikini with the belly wrinkles – how hard did she work for those??? ha ha!!

  115. MegG says:

    How on earth did she not give into ice cream cravings during pregnancy? I’m in the third trimester and crave chocolate and ice cream bad. Plus your energy levels go way down. I wish I had my usual energy at the moment

  116. V says:

    I had this long thing typed out, but it doesn’t matter. Treat people the way you want to be treated. If you put something on the internet, expect the internet to do what it wants with it…just like people are old enough to know how to be healthy, she’s old enough to know what will happen if you decide to self brag online. What her profile says to me is: Judge and be judged. You should live your life the same way I live mine because if I had your life it would still end up like mine.

    I don’t see someone with self-confidence or someone who is self-assured…I guess because the people I’ve met who did have those qualities didn’t seem desperate for my attention or have a need to be snarky/insincere in order to express themselves.

  117. Brittney says:

    “These jiggly thighs can carry me 20 miles without stopping. That’s good enough.” Absolutely golden! Shouldn’t that be the whole point, anyway? If she really does this for her kids — though we all know that’s not the only, or even the primary, reason — then she’s implying that only mothers with super-fit, toned bodies can properly care for their children. Some busy mothers are in excellent shape, stronger than ever, and still will never look like her… and that’s okay!

    While I hate responding to obvious attention-baiters like her, there’s no excuse for holding women to such superficial standards. It’s like it’s 1950 all over again, and if a woman can’t raise three kids and keep a clean house without looking “perfect” at the same time, she’s not doing her best and should be trying harder. UGH UGH UGH. I’m so sick of people like her, perpetuating these sickeningly archaic standards.

  118. Kassis says:

    OK, so maybe this woman has a big ego. Who cares.

    I am pretty large myself (been going to WW for over a year now), but I certainly don’t find a lot of fat women to be kind or nice at all. I don’t know why that is. Its just been my experience. Many of them are bullies and sit around and badmouth women who are thinner than they are. Its so non-productive and gets them nowhere in life. Resentment and envy have been a permanent feature in their lives.

  119. homegrrrrl says:

    Looks like she’s threatening the nanny who put in her notice

  120. Jane says:

    What’s my excuse? Car accident that f***ing knocked me out of work for 6 months with a back injury and PTSD. This woman has no right bloody preaching to me.

    • Kassis says:

      She is not preaching to you. She probably does not even know who you are.

      • c'est la vie says:

        No, she’s just being preachy to everyone.

        Because she’s such a special little snowflake. Nice Maxim inspired crotch shot behind her boys btw. How sweet to use your children like a prop in a photo like that.

  121. mandy says:

    I have six children (7,6,5,4,3, and an angel july 2013) done in 7 years without twins. I’m lucky, I always find my line after big weight during my pregnancies. but I feel very moved that a person as she can judge people and then make other moms feel guilty if she wants answers:! often there are not many time, money, ….. I wonder how his house? his household? signed a French mom not happy!

  122. L.S. says:

    She got what she wanted: publicity. Everyone’s talking about her now.

  123. nicegirl says:

    No real excuse, really, I’m just lazy

  124. evaP says:

    My excuse? I’m hypothyroid.

  125. jemshoes says:

    Great stuff, Kaiser!

    My excuse? Apathy and KFC! LOL

  126. No Way says:

    The problem I have with this is that women already shame themselves constantly about their appearance, and have a negative stereotype about overweight people. It feeds the stereotype that overweight is your fault because you are lazy, and that is the problem. You never know why the person you see is overweight. There are a lot of physical and mental issues that create weight problems that have very little to do with “excuses.” Also, shaming people to lose weight as a country hasn’t worked or we would be a lot thinner as a society.

  127. Quinn says:

    Snort! If I was going to go to that trouble about the way I looked, I would have found myself a wayyyy hotter husband than she did. 🙂

  128. Mitch Buchanan Rocks! says:

    Keely is more attractive.

  129. Kassis says:

    Dare I say it?

    The people who criticize her are, well…..FATTIES.

    • c'est la vie says:

      So your trolling post is actually supposed to mean that you are so lovely and attractive – inside and out.

      LOL!

  130. Miss.CAT says:

    Am I the only one who notice her husband is pretty damn average looking and also her kids are close in age. To me, when I hear people like Maria Kang speak about body fitness there is always a level a narcissism they will not admit that secretly fuels their motivation. This woman cares a lot about her looks and her husband is ok. Who wouldn’t want a hot wife but damn my life doesn’t evolve around my body nor caring for what other people may think.

    On top of that she didn’t mention about her husband’s fitness routine. She mentions what she does to keep in shape despite having kids and being a business owner. There is a level of sexism in this article and in Maria Kang that pisses me off.

    As a woman I want a healthy body but I wont do it for my boyfriend nor do it alone. You very rarely read articles of couples getting in shape together. To me Maria just another tool for sexist men to use. She seems perfectly fine with her position because she is getting all this admiration.

    >rolls eyes< I rather hear from a real woman and not some tool about health.

  131. RdyfrmycloseupmrDvlle says:

    Women like this are exhausting to be around and, frankly, frightne me. I can just imagine the enless swirl around her. She has advise for me? Great! I have advise for her too!
    Here it is:
    1. Get a real publicist. Its quite obvious your out to make a big name for yourself and become the next, manic, Richard Simmions. Invest in a good publicist.
    2. Next time you put out photos pay a little money to have an artist air briush out your wrinkly belly. Your promoting that fitness makes you beautiful? Well the bad photos ruin that endeavor.
    3. If your going to issue an apology to do damage control for your awful publicity stunt , make it convincing…….see number 1. Abouve.
    4. Hire a branding manager to think up something better than what youve got. Your obviously promoting yourself as a brand, right? Come up with something more effective, not offensive. Offensive =no money. Bad. Effective = money. Good.
    Now, lets try reading. I have a Phd. Whats your excuse ??

  132. Overmind says:

    My excuse? Not much. I am 5’11” and 180 lbs. Unfortunately I hate to lift weight so I am a soft and marshmellowy guy.

  133. kibbles says:

    She won the genetics lottery, most likely due to her Asian heritage. Go to Asia and you see a lot of young mothers who are thinner and better looking than her. It is a combination of diet, exercise, and genetics.

    I exercise more than my Asian friend and she is a US size 0. My other Asian friend is around a US size 4 and she’s 35-years-old and has 2 children. She never goes to the gym. It’s also true that these women don’t binge on fast food and load up on carbs the way Americans do, but these women aren’t exactly dieting either and probably eat a lot more than some white and black women who diet and exercise just to maintain a US size 12. These women are also quite tiny at around a height of 4’9-5’2. How can you compare a 5’0 Asian woman to a 5’5 or taller woman of African, European, or Hispanic descent? It’s completely unfair and wrong as well as perpetuates the idea that all women should look the same irregardless of their genetics or body types.

    I’m not saying that genetics is an excuse to be fat. More than anything, having bad genes should be a big motivator for people to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. However, Kang doesn’t seem to take genetics or different body types into account as well as socio-economic differences. At the end of the day, genetics is one of the largest factors in almost every characteristic including looks, weight, intelligence, and overall health. And if you don’t have access to health care or money to buy fruits and vegetables or hire a personal trainer or pay for a nice gym, you have zero chances of looking like Kang. It’s virtually impossible.

    In addition, she is not helping women with bad genes who also already have low self-esteem. I knew one black woman who lived in Asia and the pressure to be as thin as an Asian woman became so great, she became super paranoid and started regularly skipping meals (ie, developing an eating disorder) just to maintain a US size 8. Maybe Kang would consider this woman to be healthy, but this black woman’s real healthy size would probably be around a US size 10 or 12 if she ate 3 meals a day.

  134. A~ says:

    Her husband has really short arms.

  135. xoxokaligrl says:

    This chick would not be half as annoying if she was at least honest with the amount of excercize she does because nobody believes her “I work out 30-40 mins a day 5 days a week but my figure is just due to healthy eating”.

    I call bull.

    This chick is a liar and just wants publicity to feed her narcissistic ego.

    There is nothing wrong with having a healthy lifestyle but there is no reason to lie about it and try to make other people feel bad about themselves. We need good role models not horse manure.

    • kibbles says:

      I agree unless – as I stated above – she is genetically blessed and is naturally thin, so all she needs to do is exercise for about an hour to stay toned. However, that doesn’t include all the other activities she does to stay fit. I don’t know anything about this woman, but I’m sure she’s one of those Cali women who loves swimming, surfing, water sports, and hanging out on the beach. Most people after the age of 30, including those with good genes, have to maintain a strict diet and exercise more than an hour a day to stay really fit and toned. I only needed an hour when I was in my early 20s. Now, myself and a friend must exercise at least 90-120 minutes to really see major results. That requires a lot of time and dedication each and everyday, and I don’t have children. I can’t imagine being a working mom and being expected to put in 2 hours of gym time everyday. I’ve heard a lot of working moms lose the weight the unhealthy way, which is, they are so busy that they forget to eat a proper meal.

    • m says:

      It is not bull. You need to work out HARD not long to get a body like that. And it is strict carb restriction to shed the last couple % of body fat to get ab definition like that.

      Look at cross fit, trx, gym stick, tabata, body blast … all of these are high intensity workouts that the mainstays of many busy SAHMs who want to maximize their workouts in a short amount of time. Believe me they work.

  136. Trillian says:

    I don’t need an excuse because I don’t regret being a lazyass ;-).

  137. Lorraine says:

    would I love to look like that yes but my body is different. I have 2 children, and I love to run and work out but my body still has extra skin lots of stretch marks. unfortunately without surgery ill never look like that. so even though Im “skinny” and “in shape” ill never have abs. its not about not putting in the work or being lazy everyone’s body and structure is just different.

  138. TQB says:

    My excuse is that I am not a pretentious self-centered a-hole requiring the validation of strangers on the internet.

  139. j Annie d says:

    sooooo.

    what your saying is that all women need to be ______ to be accepted in societies cest pool? I bet if you I were catty friends you wouldn’t give me any peace towards existence would ya? Attention whore that’s all you are. AND I think if your three sons brought home a fat chick you would die inside. whatever…. stop abusing women psychologically!! annoying as hell on Earth. oh wait we are in hell! lolzzzzz

  140. Truth says:

    I would like to argue that Ms. Kang is full of hot air. She has very low self-esteem, which is demonstrated by her *need* to passively aggressively attack other women. Look at her husband. What is he, 5’4, 5’5? And that’s a face that only a mama hyena could love.

    “The less attractive a woman feels she is, the less likely she is to score a high-quality mate. ”

    http://www.livescience.com/1409-fertile-women-prefer-manly-men.html

    Needless to say, I don’t envy her life. 🙂

  141. Susan says:

    My excuse is that I decided to be a mother to my children, & not spend all my free time (TWO JOBS & NO NANNY? that’s what she claims!) at the gym! The even sadder fact is that when I was thirty, I looked just as good as she did, but wasn’t nearly so snotty about it. I want to see her at fifty!

  142. Lisa says:

    Oh, build a bridge. An opinion is not shaming, even if it’s annoying. There will always be someone who finds a trigger, a misplaced word, a suggestion of a better term, for everything that gets put out there. You cannot include everyone. Our experiences are too nuanced to be able to speak to absolutely every person on their exact level all the time. If you know it doesn’t apply to you, move on.

    • j Annie d says:

      who are you? God? my mom or dad? My friend? nope so leave people be by telling others what to do and think about. Newsflash I’ve never met you and you have never met me so why judge so harshly on the internet! Point being no woman or MAN has the right to tell other women what to do about their bodies. It was wrong of her unless she has a fitness corporation and that is a slogan for advertising and my opinion it’s still rude. Womens bodies are made different because no one is suppossed to be the same. and we hear enough about it from Obama and his big butt wife!

  143. tigers4us says:

    Looks as if Maria is totally in love with herself!

    • Joseph says:

      Her husband was injured while working as a private security contractor raking in the money. Not while active duty military…these two aren’t what they are cracked up to be.

  144. Just Me says:

    Look, I don’t care what she does with her time and I do have to agree with her idea that your reaction to her picture is just that – your reaction.

    HOWEVER, it’s mighty ironic that she’s talking about owning your behavior and not using excuses….yet…her PR damage control tactic has been to use the excuse that her hubby is a wounded combat Vet….and that has what, exactly, to do with the price of tea in China? Excuses are excuses, no matter how you slice them. Which use of excuses is worse? Valueing work/career/family time over working out? Or choosing to use your husband’s wounds from war as a sympathy ploy to excuse your own (not his, your own) behavior? The first I could care less about. The second? That just makes me think you’re a crappy, self involved person in general.

  145. j Annie d says:

    again society and Maria Kang. I owe you NOTHING!

  146. Jennifer says:

    she needs to worry about her own self. and also her little boys head was up against her treadmill in one of her photos … what if he had to get up and supported his weight up against the machine. neck would of injured.

    and her husband looks like a show off too….. respect people of ALL SHAPES even us women whom don’t have a petite frame doesn’t mean we aren’t feminine and kind and loving. god i hate the internet (and don’t say why your on it? ) because it’s what society wants. fart.