228: P&PA Coach Spotlight: Mary DiStasio

In this episode, I sit down with Mary DiStasio, a former Olympic gymnast turned weightlifting athlete and coach, to talk about training through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and what it really takes to support long-term athleticism in motherhood.   We explore the physical and mental challenges women face during postpartum, including pelvic health, recovery timelines, and the often-overlooked importance of intentional preparation during pregnancy. Mary shares her approach to coaching, emphasizing progressive overload, controlled movement, and building a strong foundation that supports both performance and healing.   We also dive into the mindset side of this journey—how to navigate identity shifts, manage expectations, and balance athletic goals with the realities of motherhood. This conversation highlights the importance of individualized coaching, better education, and creating a supportive environment for women in all stages of life.   This episode is a reminder that postpartum recovery isn't something to rush—it's something to build. And when approached with intention, it can set the foundation for stronger, more sustainable performance long-term.   Connect with Mary: 📸 Instagram: @marypeckcoaching   Want to go deeper in your coaching?   The Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism Coaching Series includes 4 free videos + a live Q&A, giving you practical tools and updated strategies to confidently support pregnant and postpartum athletes.   👉 Join here: https://join.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/ppa-coaching-series    MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!