As a mom, I know how it feels to look in the mirror and wonder when your body will feel like yours again. After pregnancy, many of us have this urge to “bounce back” as fast as possible.
The pressure is real, and the temptation to try quick fixes is everywhere—juice cleanses, restrictive diets, intense workout challenges.
But let me be real with you: quick fixes don’t work, especially when it comes to losing baby weight and regaining your strength postpartum.
Here’s why—and what actually does work for lasting results.
Why Quick Fixes Fail Every Time
Quick fixes promise fast results, but they usually ignore the bigger picture of your overall health. Sure, you might drop a few pounds with a strict diet or by pushing yourself through a hardcore workout, but those results are rarely sustainable. Why? Because they don’t teach you how to build real, lasting habits.
When you deprive yourself of proper nutrition as a new mom or push your body too hard too soon, you’re setting yourself up for burnout and risk of injury.
Not only that, but those drastic changes don’t fit into the already demanding life of a mom. You’ll find yourself quitting after a week because it’s just not manageable long-term.
And that leads to a frustrating cycle of starting and stopping, never seeing the real progress you deserve.
The Real Path to Losing Baby Weight and Feeling Strong
The truth is, losing baby weight and feeling strong again requires something quick fixes don’t offer: patience and consistency. It’s about creating a sustainable fitness and nutrition routine that fits into your life as a busy mom.
Here are three key steps to help you lose baby weight without falling for the quick-fix trap:
1. Start Small and Gradually Build Up
I know you’re eager to get back into shape, but jumping straight into intense workouts can do more harm than good. Instead, focus on small, manageable steps. Start with short 10-15 minute workouts that target your core, strengthen your pelvic floor, and gradually build your strength.
Your body has just gone through an incredible journey, and it needs time to heal. By taking baby steps, you avoid the burnout and muscle soreness that come from doing too much too soon. Plus, those small wins will keep you motivated to stick with it.
2. Focus on Whole Foods, Not Restrictive Diets
Losing baby weight isn’t about cutting out entire food groups or drastically reducing calories. Your body needs fuel to recover from childbirth and to keep up with the demands of motherhood. Instead of restricting, focus on nourishing your body with whole, nutrient-dense foods. Include lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and veggies in your diet.
When you give your body the proper nutrition, you’ll have more energy for workouts and feel stronger in your day-to-day activities.
3. Embrace Progress Over Perfection
The road to losing baby weight is not linear, and it’s okay if you don’t get it right every day. What matters is that you keep showing up. Consistency over time is what leads to real transformation, not perfection. It’s about finding a routine that works for you and your unique lifestyle.
Maybe some days it’s a quick workout while your baby naps, and other days it’s just stretching or a short walk with the stroller. It all adds up, mama! Don’t compare yourself to the moms you see on social media who seem to have it all figured out. Your journey is your own, and every step you take toward feeling stronger is a win.
Focus on What Works
There are no shortcuts to lasting change. Quick fixes might give you a temporary boost, but they won’t help you build the healthy, strong body you deserve in the long run. Instead of chasing fast results, focus on small, sustainable changes that fit into your life as a mom.
Losing baby weight and feeling strong again doesn’t have to feel impossible. With patience, consistency, and a plan that works for you, you’ll not only lose the baby weight but will feel empowered and confident in your body again.
Want to learn more about how to stay consistent with your fitness routine, even when life gets chaotic? Check out my latest podcast episode, where I dive deeper into how to build habits that stick, no matter how busy you are.
Keep Smiling,
Jena
Before you go, be sure to watch the free workshop!
This free workshop is for you if you want to strengthen your core postpartum in just 2 minutes a day.
It will teach you how to get started with your first postpartum ab workout using the #1 physical therapy exercise recommended for new moms, which is the safest and quickest way to recovery!
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*It is important to always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program and get medical clearance. Always warm up thoroughly and stretch after all workouts. LiveCoreStrong.com and Jena Bradley will be not be responsible or liable for any injury sustained while exercising at home, gym or elsewhere. Perform exercises at your own risk.
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