Why ‘Bouncing Back’ Postpartum Is Outdated—and What Actually Works
Ever felt like society expects you to magically ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy? Spoiler alert: that pressure is not only unrealistic, it’s downright unkind.
Meet Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who flipped the postpartum fitness script. Instead of chasing the fairy tale of shedding 50+ pounds rapidly, Emily embraced the unexpected role of a beginner — and that mindset shift made all the difference. You can read her full story here: Business Insider.
Her journey got me thinking: Why do we glorify ‘bouncing back’ when pregnancy literally changes your body forever? And how can new and hopeful moms—especially those navigating home conception journeys—embrace a kinder, smarter approach to fitness and self-care?
The ‘Bounce Back’ Myth: More Harm Than Help
Let’s be brutally honest. The idea that you should snap back to your pre-pregnancy body within weeks isn’t just unrealistic—it’s exhausting, discouraging, and frankly, unfair. The physical and emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy and postpartum life is unique to every woman (or parent). Expecting a swift return to “normal” puts unnecessary stress on people who are already juggling so much.
Emily’s epiphany came when she stopped trying to be the pro athlete she once was and started feeling like a “newbie” all over again. This mental reset lowered the pressure and opened a fresh door to progress and acceptance.
How Can We Channel This Wisdom Into Our Own Lives?
Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or using at-home conception methods (like many do with kits from places like MakeAMom), this is a game-changing mindset. Here are some tips inspired by Emily’s story and current wellness trends:
- Stop Comparing: Your journey is yours. Not your friend’s, not your sister’s, not that influencer’s.
- Start Small: Think baby steps, not giant leaps. Celebrate tiny victories like a short walk or a mindfulness moment.
- Embrace Beginner’s Mind: It’s okay to feel out of shape or clumsy—that’s the starting point.
- Focus on Strength, Not Scale: Muscle, energy levels, mood—all those wins matter more than any number on a scale.
- Prioritize Emotional Wellness: Postpartum healing isn’t just physical; mental health is a vital part of the puzzle.
The Role of Home Conception and Self-Care Tools
For many hopeful parents, the journey starts long before pregnancy. Using tools like at-home insemination kits can empower you to take control of your fertility journey comfortably and privately. Companies like MakeAMom specialize in kits that cater to different needs, from low motility sperm to specific sensitivities.
Why mention this here? Because the same kindness and thoughtful approach Emily advocates for postpartum should start before conception. Giving yourself grace, utilizing smart tools, and feeling supported can ease physical and emotional stress—making the eventual postpartum phase more manageable.
What This Means for You Today
If you’re pregnant or thinking about becoming a parent, here’s your permission slip:
- To be kind to yourself
- To set realistic expectations
- To embrace the messy, imperfect, beautiful journey
And remember, fitness and wellness aren’t about perfection—they’re about feeling strong, capable, and joyful in your body, no matter where you are on the timeline.
Final Thought
So, why keep buying into the ‘bounce back’ myth? Let’s celebrate being beginners, making progress at our own pace, and recognizing that every step forward is a victory.
What’s one kind thing you can do for your postpartum or conception journey today? Drop your thoughts below—let’s support each other, one honest story at a time.
And for those exploring home conception options, exploring MakeAMom’s range could be a gentle, empowering next step on your path.
Because sometimes the best fitness journey starts with kindness—not pressure.