Why 'Bouncing Back' Postpartum is So Yesterday: Embracing the Beginner’s Mindset to Fitness

Ever felt like the world expects you to snap back into your pre-pregnancy jeans like it’s some kind of magic trick? Well, spoiler alert: it’s not. In fact, trying to “bounce back” after pregnancy might be doing more harm than good — physically and mentally. Recently, I stumbled upon a revealing piece by a personal trainer, Emily Ricketts, who shared her own unfiltered postpartum journey and how being kind to herself became the game-changer. You can check out her story here. It’s a must-read for anyone navigating life after baby.

So why is this beginner’s mindset so revolutionary? And how can we all learn to cut ourselves some slack while still moving toward health and strength? Let’s break it down.

The Myth of ‘Bouncing Back’

For years, social media, magazines, and even well-meaning friends bombard new moms with the idea of “bouncing back” — like pregnancy weight and changes are temporary stains to be scrubbed off immediately. But here’s the truth: your body just did the incredible work of growing a tiny human. That doesn’t mean it’s broken or that success means regaining your old body overnight.

Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer herself, gained over 50 pounds during her pregnancy. Instead of stressing out about dropping it ASAP, she leaned into the fact that she was effectively starting fresh. She embraced feeling like a beginner again — and that mindset made all the difference in how she approached fitness postpartum.

Embracing the Beginner’s Mindset: What Does That Mean?

It means approaching your postpartum fitness journey with curiosity, patience, and kindness. Instead of beating yourself up for what you “should” be able to do, you celebrate small victories, appreciate your body’s resilience, and give yourself permission to start slow.

Celebrate small wins: Did a 5-minute walk without feeling wiped out? That’s progress!
Set realistic goals: Forget the 6-week “get your body back” myth. Your timeline is your own.
Listen to your body: Some days are tougher, and that’s okay.
Seek support: Whether it’s from friends, professionals, or online communities, don’t isolate yourself.

Why Kindness to Yourself Is Not Just Feel-Good Advice

Studies show that when new mums practice self-compassion, they experience better mental health, reduced postpartum depression symptoms, and more motivation to engage in healthy behaviors. So, this isn’t just fluffy talk—it’s science-backed advice.

How This Connects to Fertility and Family Building

Whether you’re currently pregnant, planning to conceive, or navigating infertility, the journey to parenthood can be an emotional rollercoaster. Being gentle with yourself and embracing patience can only help you during every phase—from trying to conceive to postpartum and beyond.

Speaking of unique family-building journeys, companies like MakeAMom are innovating the way people approach conception by offering at-home insemination kits tailored to different needs. It’s about empowering individuals and couples to feel in control and supported in their fertility journeys, much like how embracing kindness empowers new parents to reclaim their strength at their own pace.

What Can You Do If You’re Struggling Right Now?

Start journaling your feelings about your body and progress.
Find stories like Emily’s or communities where realistic postpartum journeys are celebrated.
Talk to a healthcare provider if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Explore gentle movement options—yoga, walking, or postpartum-specific fitness programs.

Final Thought: Your Journey is Valid—No Matter the Pace

Pregnancy, postpartum, and family building are messy, beautiful, and complex. There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline or look. The real victory is in accepting your body and your journey as uniquely yours.

So, the next time you catch yourself thinking, “I need to bounce back,” try this instead: “I’m starting anew, and that’s okay.” What beginner victories are you celebrating today? Share your story in the comments, let’s cheer each other on!

Remember, kindness isn’t just a warm fuzzy—it’s the secret sauce for lasting strength and joy in parenthood.

Inspired by Emily Ricketts’ honest postpartum story—read it in full here.