Mediamec South African fitness personality Sbahle Mpisane has shared a refreshingly honest update about her latest approach to health and wellbeing one that involved intentionally gaining weight to help reset her body and shift her focus away from performance-only fitness.
Mpisane, who first built her brand on strength, training and sculpted looks, revealed that over the past year she realised her body needed a different kind of attention. Rather than chasing strict diets or pushing herself through intense workouts, she chose to slow down, eat with fewer restrictions and gain around 15 kilograms as part of a broader reset plan that prioritises balance and recovery.
In a heartfelt message to her followers, Mpisane explained that this period wasn’t about losing weight or fitting a particular image. Instead, she stepped back from her usual training schedule, gave herself permission to eat freely, and even adopted a new online identity to reflect the shift moving away from her well-known “FitnessBunnie” persona to embrace a more holistic version of herself.
At the time of her update, she said she currently weighs about 90 kilograms, but is working toward a long-term goal of about 75 kilograms. Importantly, she emphasised that she is focusing on strength, better nutrition and overall health, rather than rushing results or repeating past patterns.
Mpisane’s candid explanation struck a chord with many of her supporters online. Her message celebrating self-acceptance, listening to one’s body, and redefining success in personal health journeys — drew widespread praise and encouragement. Followers expressed admiration for her willingness to be open about a process that goes beyond aesthetics, celebrating progress and resilience.
Her evolution in mindset also reflects years of personal growth. Mpisane has previously spoken about her struggles with body image and disordered approaches to fitness earlier in life. Pushing through adversity, including recovering from a serious car accident several years ago, helped shape her current perspective on strength and self-care.
Today, she continues to inspire many with her workouts and wellness content, but now emphasises mental wellbeing, sustainable habits and self-compassion alongside physical fitness. For Mpisane, this reset isn’t just about numbers it’s about feeling grounded, healthy and confident in her own skin.
Her openness about the journey serves as a reminder that health isn’t a one-size-fits-all destination, and that taking time to heal and recalibrate can be an empowering part of any fitness story.
