Sarah never imagined herself as part of a fitness community, especially not after giving birth to her daughter Emma. The sleepless nights and physical recovery from childbirth had left her feeling disconnected from her body and yearning for something more than just being "mom."
Six months postpartum, while scrolling through social media during a late-night feeding session, she stumbled upon a local women's rucking club. The idea of walking with a weighted backpack seemed less intimidating than jumping back into high-intensity workouts, and the group welcomed mothers with open arms – some even brought their babies in carriers.
Her first ruck was challenging but transformative. With a 15-pound pack on her back, Sarah joined five other women for a three-mile walk through the city parks. The physical activity felt purposeful, and the conversations flowing between steps created unexpected connections. Other mothers in the group shared their own postpartum journeys, offering advice and understanding.
Week by week, Sarah grew stronger. She increased her pack weight gradually and found herself looking forward to the early morning meetups. The best part? Emma would watch from her stroller, learning early that movement could be both challenging and joyful. Within months, Sarah wasn't just reclaiming her fitness – she had found a supportive community that celebrated every small victory, from completing longer routes to achieving personal weight goals.
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Jennifer Pishko, MSNE, is a leader in integrative health and community wellness. She is the Co-founder of McCoy Medical, which blends primary care with a robust education program focused on health, wellness, and fitness. Jennifer also serves as Chief Operating Officer of the CrossFit Medical Society. She holds a master’s degree in Nutrition Education with a specialization in Public Health, and certifications in adaptive training, athlete-centered trauma, and precision nutrition. |
