Olympian Jennie Finch Talks Fitness Goals and Mommyhood

Former Olympic pitcher Jennie Finch definitely has her hands full. After pitching the U.S.A. team to gold and silver medals at the 2004 and 2008 Olympics, respectively, she hung up her glove in 2010 and opted to spend more time with her own team: her three kids.

The 32-year-old mom and her husband, former MLB pitcher, Casey Daigle, are parents to six-year-old Ace Shane, 20-month-old Diesel Dean, and most recently, daughter, Paisley Faye, who was born this January. While she loves raising her kids, fitness still plays a huge part in her life both on and off the ball field. We caught up with the super-cool mom to talk about how she balances the responsibilities of mommyhood and her own fitness goals. Plus, she gave us a couple cool tips to take to our own fitness routine. Check it out:


Now that you're a mom of three - how do you make time to stay in shape?

It's not easy. I try to make it a priority. My workouts are not nearly what they used to be, but I take what I can get. I try to be creative and get cardio in with my kids whether it's on the trampoline, lifting them for fun, going for walks, monkey bars, basketball, and anything fun that gets us moving. It's great to have goals like a triathlon or 5k to motivate me, too.

After your first baby, did you set fitness goals for yourself?

I had tryouts for the USA National Team 6 weeks after giving birth to Ace, our oldest. I had that goal throughout pregnancy and was blessed with a great delivery and recovery and was able to get back on the field quickly. It helped having that goal and mindset during pregnancy. I stayed in good shape and stayed active.

Do you have any current fitness goals? What are they?
I'm excited to announce that I will be doing the Aquaphor NYC Triathlon in July! It's always helpful to have a goal and I have really grown to love running. It has been fun to keep competition in my life after softball. I have never done a tri before, and to be honest never have even been on a road bike or know the proper way to swim. I have my work out cut out for me!

Do you ever take your kids to your workouts?
Yes! I love incorporating them. If you can be active and involve your kids it's a win for all of us. Our oldest is getting really good on his bike and it's been fun to go out and run beside him.

With kids, it can be tough to work out daily. Do you forgive yourself when you miss a workout? Most definitely. Family is priority and they come first. But I know I am a better mom and wife when I am active, so it's a balancing act.

For a mom who wants to get in shape, but doesn't know where to start -- what would you suggest?
DVDs are great because you can do them on your own time and at home. Finding a workout partner/friend is the best way and just start moving. It's about being active and it takes baby steps but anything is better than nothing. Walking is a great way to start!

Obviously making the Olympic softball team was a huge motivator for you to be physically fit. What's your motivation now that you've retired?
To be the best me, wife, and mother. I want to stay healthy and set a good example for my kids and other young athletes.

Do you have a favorite ab-busting move?
To be honest, I really do not enjoy ab-workouts and it's probably what I should be focusing on. I like to use medicine balls and this attacks my core without me even thinking about it.


If we were to peek into your gym bag, what's your go-to gear?
Mizuno running shoes and workout gear, swim cap and goggles, Aquaphor Healing Ointment for chafing, towel, deodorant and Aquaphor Lip Repair + Protect SPF 30 for my lips.

What's your favorite healthy snack?

My go-to snack is Chobani Very Berry Greek Yogurt topped with some granola. And with fruit it's even better. It's a great source of protein and calcium, and I can work that serving of fruit in, too.

Are you hoping your daughter will want to play softball like her mom?
I would love her to play softball and we will definitely let her try it out. Ultimately it's about her being active and having fun. I just want her to find her passion, give it her all, and be happy. I know playing team sports have taught me many life lessons that have carried on way beyond the playing field.