What if the key to postpartum fitness isn’t about bouncing back, but starting fresh?

This might sound counterintuitive in a society wired for quick recoveries and snapbacks post-pregnancy. But recent insights, such as Emily Ricketts’ candid experience shared in Business Insider, challenge this pervasive narrative. Emily, a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds during pregnancy, found that kindness towards herself and embracing the feeling of being a beginner made her journey back to fitness more achievable and less stressful.

Her story isn’t just inspiring—it’s a data-backed reflection on how mindset shapes postpartum recovery and how this perspective can revolutionize the way new parents approach their health.

The Pressure to “Bounce Back” Is Real—and Often Counterproductive

For many, the postpartum period is riddled with pressure. Social media, pop culture, and even unsolicited advice bombard mothers with the expectation to quickly lose pregnancy weight and snap back into pre-pregnancy shapes. However, studies have shown that this pressure can harm mental health, lead to unrealistic goals, and ultimately, to burnout.

Emily’s approach was different: instead of rushing, she welcomed the experience of starting over. This meant recalibrating expectations, honoring her body’s changes, and recognizing that fitness is a process—especially after pregnancy.

Why Being a “Beginner” After Pregnancy Makes Sense

Feeling like a beginner is often seen as a setback. But postpartum, it’s a necessary reset. Pregnancy transforms the body physically, hormonally, and emotionally, which means previous fitness routines might not be safe or effective immediately after birth.

From a physiological standpoint, muscles, ligaments, and overall endurance require time to rebuild. This is why many rehab-focused fitness programs recommend adapting exercises to postpartum realities rather than diving straight into intense regimes.

This mindset shift, supported by Emily’s personal account, aligns with broader scientific evidence advocating for gradual progress and self-compassion in postpartum health journeys.

The Broader Implications: Mental Health & Wellbeing

Mental health is deeply intertwined with physical recovery. When mothers stop treating themselves as failures for changes in their bodies and instead acknowledge the complexity of postpartum recovery, stress decreases, and motivation often improves.

It’s about shifting from a performance-driven mentality to a wellness-driven one. Embracing kindness reduces postpartum depression risks and fosters a healthier relationship with one’s body.

How This Relates to Alternative Parenthood and At-Home Insemination

If you’re navigating alternative pathways to parenthood, whether through at-home insemination or other methods, these insights are especially relevant. The journey to parenthood can be unpredictable and deeply emotional. Managing expectations and practicing self-kindness is crucial for wellbeing.

Organizations like MakeAMom offer tools designed with care and discretion to support conception at home, providing individuals and couples control and comfort during the process. Their approach reminds us that parenthood journeys are personal, unique, and deserving of compassion—both mentally and physically.

Practical Tips for Building a Kind Postpartum Fitness Journey

  • Set realistic goals: Understand your current body state and prioritize healing.
  • Celebrate small wins: Every step forward is progress, no matter how small.
  • Embrace beginner-level exercise: Pilates, light yoga, walking, and breathing exercises are great starters.
  • Seek supportive communities: Whether online groups or local meetups, connection helps.
  • Practice self-compassion: Remind yourself that your worth isn’t tied to speed of recovery.

Wrapping It Up: A New Narrative for Postpartum Wellness

Emily Ricketts’ story shines a light on a broader truth: kindness and patience can be your strongest allies postpartum. As alternative pathways to parenthood become more prominent and accessible, recognizing and addressing emotional health is paramount.

Next time you feel overwhelmed by the “bounce back” narrative, remember: starting fresh and being kind to yourself isn’t just okay—it might be the smartest, most effective path forward.

How have you navigated changes in your body or mindset during the postpartum period or parenthood journey? Share your thoughts below!

For more resources on personalized conception options and embracing your unique path, explore the discreet and thoughtful offerings at MakeAMom.

References: - Ricketts, E. "I'm a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds while pregnant. Being kind to myself made getting fit again much easier." Business Insider, 2025. Read the full article here.