Researcher, Mom of Four, and Fitness Instructor

In the spring of 2020, when the world was gripped by the COVID-19 pandemic, Brianne Tomaszewski found herself pregnant with her second child. As a lifelong runner who had conquered nearly a dozen marathons, she was determined to maintain her fitness during pregnancy. This quest led her to FIT4MOM, a program dedicated to supporting women through all stages of motherhood.

Joining virtual classes from her local Chapel Hill FIT4MOM group several times each week, she found a community that was instrumental during such a challenging time. “It was an isolating and unusual period for everyone,” reflected Tomaszewski, an assistant professor at the UNC School of Medicine and a key member of the TEACCH Autism Program. “But we were all experiencing it together. It provided me with a sense of community and an avenue to stay safe physically during my pregnancy. We formed a close-knit group, and I realized that FIT4MOM would always be a part of my life because it connected us and helped us navigate our pregnancies.”

Tomaszewski teaches a variety of classes with FIT4MOM, including Stroller Strides, a class that combines exercise for moms and songs and games for their children. (Submitted photo)

As restrictions eased and in-person interactions resumed, Tomaszewski was eager to remain active in her newfound community. She took on the role of a teacher for FIT4MOM’s Run Club and began to lead Stroller Strides, a fantastic class that merges mom-focused workouts with cheerful music and engaging activities for children. This combination provided not only physical benefits but also essential social interactions during what can be a lonely journey for new mothers.

Though Tomaszewski has a demanding career as a principal investigator involved in clinical research related to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, she embraced her role as a fitness instructor. “My mission has always centered around supporting individuals and advocating for families,” she shared. “FIT4MOM has opened my eyes to the varied experiences parents face as they navigate services, further fueling my desire to provide information and be a resource. This experience has deepened my empathy toward research participants and the communities we work with.”

Tomaszewski has been instructing FIT4MOM classes for about five years. “It’s really added a sense of belonging and community,” she said. (Submitted photo)

For the past five years, Tomaszewski has found ways to integrate FIT4MOM classes into her hectic schedule, which includes raising four children aged between 18 months and 7 years. She typically teaches on weekends and any weekday when she finds the time. Currently, she’s on a brief hiatus from teaching classes but looks forward to resuming her role this spring.

“Teaching is a blast. I love connecting with the kids, engaging in song and play, and fostering connections among moms,” she said. “It has truly enriched my sense of belonging and community.”

After the birth of her fourth child in 2024, Tomaszewski faced severe postpartum depression and required hospitalization. “During that tough time, my colleagues at UNC and my FIT4MOM community rallied around me,” she shared. “They brought food and visited me in the hospital. I deeply value this sense of community.”

For expecting mothers or women with newborns who might feel apprehensive about joining a class, Tomaszewski has a reassuring message: “You should definitely join us because it’s the most welcoming environment. You can show up late and no one will mind. If you forget a diaper, someone will help you out. It’s the ideal setting to find your tribe alongside others navigating the challenges of motherhood.”