Body Transformation: Jamie Lynn Graham Is A Motivational Mom!

Vital Stats

Name: Jamie Lynn Graham
Email: fitgraham@hotmail.com
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska

Why I decided to transform

Being raised with a healthy foundation lead me to instill the same values and habits in my children. I was lucky to find a man that shares the same passion in fitness and health as me.

My husband and I are different than most couples. We spend time on Bodybuilding.com reading articles, have gym dates on Friday night, and meal prep on Saturday and Sunday. We're a team and constantly support each other.

When I became pregnant with our first baby, I was thrilled but almost lost. I didn't know if I should continue running or lifting weights. So as the middle of my pregnancy neared, I slowed down and stopped working out.

When I delivered our first baby girl, I got the go from the doctor to start working out again and set a goal to fit into my skinny pre-pregnancy jeans. I hit that goal within three months by eating healthy and running with my new baby girl. I also made a point to hit the weights at least three days per week.

Three months later, I got pregnant with our second baby and delivered him 15 months after our first. I stayed in the weight room longer during my second pregnancy and kept up with my cardio. I set a new goal to compete in my first triathlon four months after delivery. I busted my butt every day and when race day came I was proud to race alongside my mom.

Two months later, I got pregnant again with our third baby and delivered her 15 months after our second. I decided at the beginning of my pregnancy to compete during the summer following my delivery. I knew it would be hard with three children under age 3, but I was determined.

My workouts and training the third time around were much different. I was comfortable lifting in the gym until the night before I delivered. My doctor continually gave me the OK to lift weights in moderation and to listen to my body. I was back in the gym as soon as the doctor gave me the go to lift again.

Four months after delivering our third child, I stepped on stage at my first bikini competition. I took fifth place but felt like I won in my heart. I worked hard, set a goal, and made a plan to achieve it.

My husband is my number one supporter. I couldn't have reached any goal without his support. He was always there to help with the kids, eat clean with me, and cheer me on.

I owe much of my passion for fitness and nutrition to my mom. She set the ground work and raised me to be an active and healthy woman. I plan to pass the same values to my children.

How I accomplished my goals

I always have short-, medium-, and long-term goals. They constantly change and evolve. Writing them down helps me focus. They are very specific goals like weight training, body fat, and overall life goals.

I hope to deadlift 225 pounds by February 2014, compete in bikini in March 2014, grace the cover of a major fitness magazine, and be a sponsored Bodybuilding.com athlete.

Everyone has rough days that bring them down. When that happens, I look at my fridge, which has a saying that reads, "Discipline is simply choosing between what you want now and what you want most." It's surrounded by pictures of my husband and kids. My measurements and goals are above it.

I know how important it is to be a positive role model for my children. Being a personal trainer keeps me on my toes. I want my clients to see what hard work and determination will get them. I want to continue living the lifestyle I preach daily to my clients.

It's important to live by my word. My mother taught me that. I can only do my best to pass the same message to my children and clients.

What aspect challenged me the most

Balancing gym and family time was the hardest. I came to the revelation that gym time is the only time I have to myself. When I'm not sleeping or at the gym, I'm taking care of the kids and my husband. Going to the gym became a habit to relive daily stress that comes with having three children and a husband who works a lot.

My future fitness plans

I plan to compete in one more bikini competition and transition into fitness. I'm excited to move to that category and look forward to the challenge. Being a personal trainer was my dream job. I love to train and help others achieve their fitness goals. My ultimate goal is to inspire people to reach their fitness goals and become their healthiest version.

Suggestions for aspiring transformers

How Bodybuilding.com helped me reach my goals

Bodybuilding.com has been part of my fitness journey since the beginning. The exercise library is second to none. The Female Transformation of the Week articles keep me going and gives me motivation to stick with it. Body Space keeps me accountable.

The vast amount of articles and forums on the website never ceases to amaze me. Overall, it has been my right hand man and will continue to be until the day I lift my last weight.

Jamie's Top 5 Gym Tracks