FITNESS IS FOR EVERYONE: It’s one of our core beliefs here at Men’s Health and Women’s Health, and it’s been at the beating heart of every issue of both magazines since the beginning.
The fitness industry, though, has a problem with diversity, equity, and inclusion. A big one. From educational and financial obstacles that prevent too many people from becoming fitness experts to empty and enduring assumptions about who and what fitness is for, a whole weight-rack full of systemic issues (racism, homophobia, ageism, to name a few) have consistently deprived trainers from marginalized communities the tools they need to build a career in fitness. They also prevent these men and women from bringing clients in their own communities the kinds of enjoyable, exciting workout experiences that make fitness fun. That needs to change now, and Men’s Health and Women’s Health want to help.
.
Our new MH/WH Strength in Diversity Initiative, which you can apply for here, will offer trainers from marginalized communities the chance to work with a cadre of elite fitness professionals. Each trainer will be assigned an advising mentor trainer. Mentors commit to half-hour weekly calls with their mentees, offering guidance on program building, brand-building, education, and workout design, as well as study guidance. Mentors will also communicate with Men’s Health and Women’s Health to recommend key certifications for aspiring trainers.
We provide further instruction in a series of Zoom clinics that teach video and social media content creation, the importance of nutrition in fitness, and keys to coaching athletes. All trainers will have the opportunity to earn certifications from the NSCA and Precision Nutrition, and at least one trainer will have a chance to work with All Out Studio, the Hearst fitness app.
Our hope is that these trainers will share their knowledge in their communities, creating fun, exciting, and effective training plans and helping ensure better fitness and long-term health for everyone. The first round of trainers in the MH/WH Strength in Diversity Initiative come from a wide range of backgrounds, hailing from all corners of the country and the U.K. and Canada. Let’s get stronger together!
Comments are closed.