Erin Burnett, the lead anchor of CNN’s news show OutFront, has carved a prominent place for herself in broadcast journalism. From covering the 2008 financial crisis to reporting live from Ukraine during the 2022 Russian invasion, Burnett has demonstrated a commitment to being "out front" - not only physically but also emotionally and empathetically. Beyond her professional achievements, Burnett is also a dedicated mother of two. This article explores how she integrates fitness into her demanding life, offering insights and tips for other busy individuals, especially pregnant women and new mothers.
Burnett's Philosophy: Incorporating Fitness into Daily Life
Burnett's approach to fitness is not about rigid gym routines but about weaving activity into her daily life. Having children has changed how she spends her time, and she has adapted by finding creative ways to stay active.
Pregnancy and Postpartum Fitness
During her first pregnancy, Burnett maintained her regular workout routine, as exercise made her feel balanced. However, with a toddler at home during her second pregnancy, she prioritized spending time with her child. After an unplanned C-section, she quickly resumed activity, carrying her toddler around.
In the initial months after giving birth, Burnett embraced motherhood as her primary form of fitness. She playfully uses her baby as a weight while performing household tasks. Walking the stroller becomes an exercise by incorporating lunges. Her daily walks involve carrying one baby in a carrier while pushing another in a stroller. She also focuses on engaging her legs and core while picking up toys and lifting her toddler.
Additionally, Burnett incorporates leg lifts and basic Pilates into playtime with her son. This approach allows her to make progress and feel a muscle burn without adhering to a strict schedule.
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Diet and Nutrition
Burnett has also made conscious dietary changes. She prepares fruit and vegetable smoothies for her son and shares them with him. She prioritizes organic foods when possible and includes fish in their diet. As a breastfeeding mother, she considers her daughter's needs when making food choices. While she admits to enjoying sweets, her overall focus is on healthier options.
Practical Tips for Integrating Fitness
Burnett's experiences offer several practical tips for incorporating fitness into a busy lifestyle:
- Walk whenever possible: Opt for walking instead of driving or taking a taxi to increase daily activity.
- Take the stairs: Choose stairs over elevators and escalators to elevate your heart rate and engage your muscles.
- Incorporate activity into daily tasks: Focus on engaging your back and abs, Pilates-style, while cleaning or giving a bath.
- Use your children as weights: Incorporate your children into your fitness routine by using them as weights during exercises.
- Don't be afraid to continue pre-pregnancy activities: Unless your doctor advises otherwise, continue activities you enjoyed before pregnancy, such as Pilates.
The Importance of Pursuing Passions
Burnett believes that pursuing personal passions, including fitness, contributes to being a more joyful mother. She emphasizes that small improvements in fitness can be achieved even without formal workouts.
The Broader Context of Erin Burnett's Career
Erin Burnett's career at CNN is a testament to her dedication and resilience. She launched OutFront 14 years ago, becoming a fixture of the network’s primetime lineup. During this time, she has covered numerous significant events, from the Paris terror attack in 2015 to the war in Ukraine. Burnett was in Ukraine when Russia invaded in February 2022 and secured an interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy the following year.
Her ability to sustain longevity in broadcast journalism is increasingly rare. Burnett attributes this to the importance of trust and consistency in a world with more choices than ever for consuming information. She emphasizes the value of fact-checking and gravity, qualities that CNN strives to provide.
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Burnett's personal life has also evolved during her time at CNN. She got engaged the summer she came to the network, got married, and had her children. Parenthood has significantly impacted her journalism, making the stories she covers more tangible and raw.
Erin Burnett's Mastectomy-Scar Tattoo: A Story of Resilience and Empowerment
Erin Burnett, at 36, transformed her mastectomy scar with a tattoo, a powerful act of reclaiming her body and confidence after battling stage II, triple-positive, invasive ductal carcinoma. Diagnosed at 28, the necessary breast cancer treatment and mastectomy had a profound impact on her self-image. For years, her scars served as constant reminders of the trauma she had endured, making her feel disconnected from her own body.
The Turning Point: Discovering Mastectomy Tattoos
Burnett's perspective shifted when she discovered mastectomy tattoos online. Facing limited options for breast reconstruction due to skin damage from radiation treatments and unsuccessful attempts with tissue expanders, she saw the tattoo as a transformative alternative. She applied to be part of a program offering these tattoos, feeling like she "was on Oprah" when selected.
The Tattoo Experience: A Day of Empowerment
Matched with artist Sal Tino, who generously donated his time and talent, Burnett chose peonies for her tattoo, inspired by their blooming nature. The day of the tattoo was filled with positivity and camaraderie. She bonded with other women who had undergone similar journeys, creating a new sense of family. Despite the emotional and physical challenges, Burnett found strength in reclaiming her body.
The Reveal: A Moment of Awe and Confidence
The unveiling of the tattoo was an emotional experience. Surrounded by support, Burnett saw her body in a new light. The tattoo brought back confidence she hadn't felt since before her mastectomy, transforming her scars into "battle wounds" to be shown off to the world.
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The Impact: A Life-Changing Transformation
The mastectomy tattoo had a profound impact on Burnett's life. It helped her heal emotionally and mentally, allowing her to fall back in love with her body. She began to stand taller and feel more confident, a change noticed even by her young sons. The artwork helped her reclaim her body and be proud of who she had become.
Navigating Challenges in the Media Landscape
Burnett acknowledges the challenges facing the cable news industry, including cord-cutting, fragmented audiences, and declining trust in traditional media. CNN has also experienced ownership changes and potential future transitions. Despite these challenges, Burnett remains committed to her work and the team she works with.
She believes that the core values of journalism, such as fact-checking and providing a platform for collective experiences, remain essential. Burnett emphasizes the importance of working with people you trust and growing together.