**Controversy Arises Over Influencer’s Baby-Wearing Workout Routine**
Angela Holm, a mother of five and influencer, has sparked a heated online debate following the release of videos showcasing her nightly workouts while baby-wearing. The TikTok videos, which detail her postpartum gym routine, have garnered significant attention, leading to discussions around safety and parenting practices.
In a post shared on August 8, Holm documented her “postpartum night gym” routine, highlighting her dedication to fitness shortly after giving birth to her fifth child on March 30. In the video, she begins by pushing her daughter in a stroller as she uses the treadmill. Initially, the baby appears to be peacefully asleep in the stroller. However, as the footage progresses, the child begins to cry, prompting Holm to strap her baby to her chest using a baby carrier, which is part of her own brand, Angel Baby Carriers.
The clip quickly attracted over two million views, but not all feedback was positive. Numerous commenters expressed concern about the safety of baby-wearing while walking on a treadmill. One user remarked, “This whole situation doesn’t look very safe,” while others raised alarms about the potential dangers posed by the loud gym music affecting the baby’s hearing.
In response to the backlash, Holm spoke with PEOPLE, acknowledging that she was taken aback by the video’s popularity and the ensuing criticism. She commented, “I think people are always going to have opinions, especially regarding parenting. Everyone parents differently, and what works for one family might not work for another.”
Holm defended her actions, asserting that she felt secure while using the treadmill with her baby. “I didn’t think walking at a controlled pace while wearing my baby was dangerous,” she stressed. Holm emphasised her vigilance during the workout, noting that she was attentive to her daughter the entire time. “Of course, someone could worry about tripping on a treadmill, but you could also trip while walking outside or carrying your baby somewhere,” she explained, discussing the inherent risks that come with everyday parenting decisions.
Additionally, Holm highlighted the limitations of social media, pointing out that it represents just a fraction of one’s life. “At the end of the day, I’m a mom of five doing what works for me and my family, and I always prioritise my children’s safety,” she stated.
Many users weighed in to support Holm, arguing that the criticism she received reflects a broader trend of judgement faced by mothers who attempt to balance personal needs with childcare responsibilities. One commenter lamented, “Anything but applauding and supporting new mothers, I see. And y’all WONDER why we struggle.” Others praised Holm for prioritising her mental health and physical wellbeing, asking for greater understanding and recognition of her efforts.
Holm echoed this sentiment, stating, “I think moms get judged no matter what we do sometimes. Everyone has an opinion when it comes to parenting, and naturally thinks their way is the right way. However, there are myriad ways to be a good parent.” She articulated a desire for greater empathy among mothers.
This incident is not the first occasion on which Holm has found herself at the centre of safety discussions related to her workouts. In a previous TikTok post from July 4, she showcased her exercise routine, which included weightlifting while baby-wearing. Critics once again expressed their concerns, questioning the safety for her child, with comments such as, “How can you run on a treadmill while carrying a child? The child could be injured.”
Despite the mixed responses, some viewers came to her defence, praising her workout routine as impressive and encouraging her to ignore the negativity. Holm’s upbeat response seemed to indicate that she remains resilient against criticism.
In her online presence, Holm portrays her life as a stay-at-home mother residing in rural Utah, where she balances her parenting duties with her passion for creating content. She often shares insights into her daily routine, which includes managing her household and engaging in activities with her children.
As discussions about her workout methods continue, Holm persists in sharing her motherhood journey, advocating for a culture of support and understanding among parents. With a focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle while caring for her family, Angela Holm’s experience highlights the complexities of modern parenting and the often contentious conversations that can arise in the online parenting community.