In this episode of Inclusive Movement & Nutrition Ireland, Maggie shares her journey of how exercise evolved from a source of strength into a coping mechanism rooted in fear. What began as a healthy postpartum habit slowly became a way to avoid difficult emotions, mask undiagnosed postnatal depression, and seek external validation.

Through raw reflection, Maggie explores how even the most celebrated wellness behaviors—like running during pregnancy—can become unhealthy when driven by fear, perfectionism, or internalized pressure. She also challenges common fitness narratives around confidence, “bouncing back,” and mental health, offering a compassionate reminder that movement should serve you, not control you.

Key Highlights

• How postpartum running became a coping mechanism for undiagnosed postnatal depression
• The subtle shift from “healthy habits” to obsessive exercise and the fear that drove it
• Why running during pregnancy wasn’t about fitness but about control and fear of stopping
• The dark side of “bounce back” praise and how external validation fed unhealthy behaviors
• Red flags in your relationship with exercise and why obsession is often mistaken for discipline

If this episode resonates with you or someone you know, please share it. Let’s change the conversation around exercise and motherhood.

About Maggie:

Maggie is the owner of Simple Strength Leixlip, a size-inclusive gym in Ireland that prioritizes evidence-based, non-diet approaches to movement. She’s passionate about creating welcoming, empowering spaces for people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities

Connect with Maggie:

Podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/inclusive_movement_nutrition/

Business IG: https://www.instagram.com/simple.strength.leixlip/

Website: https://simplestrengthleixlip.com/

Mental Health Support Ireland

HSE Mental Health Services

• Website: HSE.ie or YourMentalHealth.ie
• Freephone: 1800 929 539

St Patrick's Mental Health Services

• Website: stpatricks.ie
• Phone: (01) 249 3200

Mental Health Ireland

• Address: Marina House, 11-13 Clarence Street, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin
• Website: mentalhealthireland.ie

Perinatal Mental Health

HSE Specialist Perinatal Mental Health

• Access through HSE mental health services or your GP
• Website: HSE.ie

Body Image & Eating Disorder Support

Bodywhys - The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland

• Helpline: (01) 2107906
• Website: bodywhys.ie
• Address: PO Box 105, Blackrock, Co Dublin

St Patrick's Eating Disorders Programme

• Phone: (01) 249 3200
• Website: stpatricks.ie

Eating Disorder Clinic Ireland

• Website: eatingdisorderclinic.ie

Crisis Support

• Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
• Text HELLO to 50808 (free crisis text line)

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