Why “Bouncing Back” After Pregnancy is So 2025—and What Actually Works

Forget ‘bouncing back’—what if the real secret to postpartum fitness is being kind to yourself?

If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or even just someone interested in fertility and wellness, there’s a fresh breeze blowing in the world of fitness and self-care. Earlier this month, a personal trainer named Emily Ricketts dropped a truth bomb in an eye-opening Business Insider piece that’s shaking up the way we think about pregnancy weight and fitness journeys.

So, what’s the fuss about? Emily gained over 50 pounds during pregnancy—yes, 50 pounds! But instead of rushing to ‘bounce back’ like so many of us feel pressured to do, she found a surprising motivation: embracing the feeling of being a beginner again.

Why ‘Bouncing Back’ is a Trap

The cultural obsession with ‘bouncing back’ after pregnancy often sets up unrealistic expectations. You’re supposed to snap right back to your pre-pregnancy body, as if nine months of growing a tiny human were just a speed bump. Spoiler alert: it’s not just unfair—it’s exhausting and frankly, kind of cruel.

Emily’s story flips the script. Instead of guilt-tripping herself, she leaned into self-compassion and patience, which made getting fit again feel more achievable and even enjoyable.

What Does This Mean for You?

Maybe you haven’t carried a baby, but you’re on your own fertility journey, exploring options like at-home insemination or preparing your body and mind for pregnancy. Whether you’re using a kit like MakeAMom’s CryoBaby or BabyMaker, or simply navigating the rollercoaster of hormones and emotions, kindness to yourself is your secret weapon.

Patience is power: Every journey is unique; rushing leads to frustration.
Celebrate beginnings: Feeling like a beginner is actually a fresh start.
Mind + body connection: Mental wellness drives physical progress.

Speaking of At-Home Insemination—Here’s a Thought

Self-kindness isn’t just about fitness, it’s also a mindset that can transform how you approach fertility. The folks at MakeAMom get this. Their at-home insemination kits are designed to empower you in a private, comfortable way—no rushing, no pressure.

Whether you’re handling low motility sperm with the Impregnator kit or sensitive conditions with the BabyMaker, it’s all about your timing and your pace. And with a reported 67% success rate, it’s a reassuring option that respects your journey.

How to Embrace This Modern Postpartum Mindset

Here are five surprisingly simple ways to be kind to yourself and still make progress:

Set realistic goals: Tiny wins count. Got 5 minutes for a walk? That’s a win.
Listen to your body: Some days are better than others—accept that.
Ditch the comparison game: Social media highlight reels aren’t reality.
Celebrate every milestone: From the first time you use your MakeAMom kit right to that boost in stamina.
Talk about it: Join forums or support groups where you can share and listen.

The Bigger Picture: Wellness Beyond Weight

Emily’s journey shows that postpartum wellness isn’t about speed or scale; it’s about strength—mental, emotional, and physical. It’s about reclaiming your story on your terms. And this philosophy fits beautifully with the ethos of at-home fertility options, where comfort, privacy, and empowerment come first.

So, whether you’re just starting out or deep into your fertility or fitness journey, remember this: kindness isn’t a consolation prize, it’s the ultimate game-changer.

Ready to ditch the pressure and start fresh? Check out MakeAMom’s resources and find a fertility tool that respects your unique pace. Because your journey deserves its own rhythm.

What’s your take on postpartum pressure and self-kindness? Have you found your own way to embrace being a ‘beginner’ again? Drop your story in the comments—let’s start a conversation that empowers everyone to feel seen and supported. 💬