NAVIGATING FITNESS EMPOWERING WORKOUTS FOR EVERY BODY
Welcome to the May issue of Queen Size Magazine, where we dive into the world of fitness through an inclusive lens. In this feature, we explore how the fitness industry is evolving to embrace diverse body types and abilities, highlighting empowering workouts that cater to everyone. From adaptive exercises to body-positive gym environments, discover how individuals and communities are championing inclusivity in fitness, inspiring us all to prioritize movement and wellness on our own terms.
Embracing Adaptive Workouts
One of the most exciting developments in fitness is the rise of adaptive workouts tailored to individuals with diverse abilities and needs. Adaptive fitness focuses on modifying exercises to accommodate different body types and physical challenges, ensuring that everyone can participate and benefit from physical activity. Whether it's seated workouts, low-impact exercises for joint health, or personalized routines for varying fitness levels, adaptive fitness empowers individuals to engage in meaningful movement that suits their unique circumstances.
Trainers like Sarah Taylor, a plus fitness instructor and advocate for body positivity, have been instrumental in promoting adaptive fitness. Through her inclusive fitness approach, Sarah encourages us to get fit at any size. She helps us with suggesting moderations if you have limitations or restrictions due to size and or injuries. The best thing is she offers virtual options so no excuses. She is one of my faves! I have done many of her workouts on YouTube, in the comfort of my own home, at my own pace. Check out her website TODAY!
Creating Body-Positive Spaces
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for body-positive gym spaces that prioritize inclusivity and acceptance. These gyms aim to break away from traditional fitness stereotypes and create environments where individuals feel valued and supported regardless of their size, shape, or fitness level.
One such example is the "Power Plus Wellness". A Latina-owned business curating private movement classes and events for plus-size bodies to jiggle freely, unlearn diet culture, and joyfully co-regulate in a safe community. The Founders are all body positive advocates so you will be right at home with Jessie Diaz-Herrera, CEO, Co-Founder and Instructor, Josephine ‘Amanda’ Sabater, COO, Speaker & Facilitator and Maddy Jones, CMO, Co-Founder.
Power Plus Wellness offers in person and virtual sessions. You can sign up for classes like Pilates, Form Fitness, Aerial Yoga, Cycling and more. Check them out today.
You are never too old to move
in addition to the above mentioned, we also have body AND age-inclusive individuals out here in these streets (literally) helping us get in shape. Phyllis Spencer aka Love Yourself Phyllis is very well known in Harlem and can be seen around town offering fitness classes to all age groups. Most recently she has added aqua aerobics to her curriculum. Phyllis is a veteran model, fitness instructor, and dancer. If you haven’t taken any of her fitness classes, go ahead and hit her up. She will motivate you to do something as simple as “just move”.
Tips for Inclusive Fitness
If you're looking to embrace movement and wellness on your own terms, here are some tips inspired by the champions of inclusive fitness:
Find Your Tribe: Seek out fitness communities and trainers who prioritize inclusivity and celebrate diversity. Whether it's online or in-person, connecting with like-minded individuals can provide the motivation and support needed to stay active.
Listen to Your Body: Honor your body's unique needs and limitations. Modify exercises as necessary to ensure a safe and enjoyable workout experience.
Set Realistic Goals: Focus on how movement makes you feel rather than how it changes your appearance. Celebrate every milestone, big or small, along your fitness journey. The changes will come.
Explore Different Modalities: Experiment with various types of workouts until you find what resonates with you. Remember, fitness is not one-size-fits-all.
Inspiring Success Stories
The future of fitness is inclusive, empowering, and diverse. By embracing adaptive workouts, supporting body-positive spaces, and celebrating individual achievements, we can all navigate our fitness journeys with confidence and joy. Remember, fitness is for every body!
Stay tuned for more empowering content in the upcoming issues of Queen Size Magazine. Until then, keep moving, keep exploring, and keep empowering yourself through fitness!
