A Facebook photo of a 35-year old former bodybuilder lifting 75 pounds 33 weeks through her pregnancy is gaining positive and negative remarks online.

"8 months pregnant with baby number 3 and CrossFit has been my sanity. I have been CrossFitting for 2 1/2 years and ... strongly believe that pregnancy is not an illness, but a time to relish in your body's capabilities to kick ass," Lee-Ann Ellison captions the controversial photo.

The photo has over 18,000 likes as of writing and a range of comments. Some people were appalled at what Ellison was doing, while others were more supportive and even defended the former bodybuilder.

Exercise during pregnancy should be regulated, says the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

"Recreational and competitive athletes with uncomplicated pregnancies can remain active during pregnancy and should modify their usual exercise routines as medically indicated. Previously inactive women and those with medical or obstetric complications should be evaluated before recommendations for physical activity during pregnancy are made."

Ellison was used to lifting weights up to 190 pounds before her pregnancy but is now sticking to lighter weights of 75 pounds.

According to a report by CNN, pregnant women are usually advised to exercise about 30 minutes in most days of the week. Specifically, pregnant women should be doing "moderate" exercise; however, "moderate" has no operational definition. "Moderate" exercise varies from one person to the other - depending on how active the individual was before pregnancy.

Though "moderate" exercise is recommended during pregnancy, medical professionals are advising pregnant women to stay away from certain high risk physical activities. These activities include scuba diving, horseback riding and downhill skiing among others. Activities that put pregnant women at high risk of falling or abdominal injury should also be avoided.

While some comments on Ellison's photo regarding her daily dose of CrossFitting have been called "stupid" and "dangerous," her statement makes it clear that she will be continuing the physical regimen.

"I want to thank everyone for their kind and supportive responses! Haters will hate and it's ok. My life is not their life thank goodness! Lol! Again, thank you! It means so much to feel this much love from a community I adore," she posted on her image's thread.

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