Sbahle Mpisane shares why she intentionally gained 15kg to reset her body
“2026 is the year to invest in yourself.” Those are the words from Sbahle Mpisane, better known to many as the FitnessBunnie, who is stepping into a new chapter of her wellness journey with honesty and calm confidence.
The fitness influencer recently posted a video of herself training, but it wasn’t just another workout clip. Instead, she used the moment to open up about a major personal decision: over the past year, she intentionally gained 15kg to give her body the reset it needed.
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From FitnessBunnie to Sparkles: a new approach
Mpisane explained that she stepped back from intense training, changed her social media name from FitnessBunnie to Sparkles, and allowed herself to eat freely, without the usual pressure or restriction.
“Last year I learned my body needed something different and intentionally gained 15kg to reset it,” she wrote. “I stepped back from training, I even changed my name from FitnessBunnie to Sparkles and allowed myself to eat freely. Currently, I am 90kg, but my goal weight is 75kg, no change. I am well recovered. Lifting heavy. Eating better. See you in three months. Same shower. New me.”
Her candidness immediately resonated with her followers, who flooded the comments with praise and support.
One follower suggested Mpisane start a gym dress line, applauding her for redefining fitness representation for women. Another simply wrote, “Couldn’t say it better,” while a third echoed her commitment: “See you in three months.”
A long journey to self-acceptance
Mpisane’s relationship with fitness has evolved over the years. She has spoken openly about struggling with body image as a teenager, experimenting with restrictive diets and weight loss pills. In 2014, she committed to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, embracing her natural body while prioritising overall well-being.
Her FitnessBunnie brand grew from this authenticity, offering coaching, programmes, and boot camps designed to empower women to feel confident in their bodies. Her message has consistently challenged narrow beauty standards, proving that strength, health, and confidence come in all shapes and sizes.
Overcoming hardship and redefining wellness
The influencer’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. In 2018, she survived a severe car accident, which demanded a long physical and emotional recovery. In recent years, her focus has shifted from chasing appearance-based goals to prioritising healing, self-acceptance, and sustainable wellness.
Her recent decision to gain weight intentionally reflects this philosophy: listening to her body, trusting the process, and investing in her long-term health rather than fleeting ideals.
As Sbahle Mpisane herself puts it, it’s not about the scale, it’s about strength, recovery, and embracing the “new me” on her own terms.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@TshisaLIVE}
