Triple jumper Senni Salminen surprised by the ease of baby life: 'Less tough than they warned us'

Finnish triple jumper Senni Salminen has found the reality of motherhood to be surprisingly manageable, contrary to the daunting portrayals she had heard. Salminen, who welcomed her first child, a son, with partner Stella Wickström in January, is currently preparing for the European Championships qualifiers in Birmingham.

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It's been less tough than they warned us. It depends a lot on the child. We have an easy case.

Salminen shared that the transition to life with a newborn has been less demanding than she anticipated. She attributes this partly to having an "easy case" in her son, who sleeps well. To optimize her recovery, Salminen has adjusted her sleep arrangements, sleeping in a separate room to ensure uninterrupted rest, while still actively participating in childcare.

"It's been less tough than they warned us. It depends a lot on the child. We have an easy case," Salminen stated. She also expressed the profound depth of love she feels, an emotion that has surprised her. While the new identity of 'mother' is still settling in, she feels it is becoming increasingly natural.

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I also didn't know that you could love something this much.

Her partner plays a key role in the baby's care, including breastfeeding, allowing Salminen to focus on her athletic training. The 30-year-old athlete's personal best this season is 13.78 meters, with the qualifying standard for the championships set at 14.15 meters. Despite past struggles with foot injuries, her body is reportedly in good condition for the competition.

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If someone talks about me as a mother, I wonder if I am someone's mother.