Hello and welcome, listeners, and readers, to a captivating discussion that dives deep into fitness, self-acceptance, and the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Today, we're joined by Matt, the founder of Fit Confident You, who shares his inspiring journey from feeling uncomfortable in gym environments to establishing a dedicated community for like-minded individuals.
Discovering Confidence: Matt's Journey
Matt begins by sharing his personal story, recalling initial discomfort and alienation in traditional gym settings. Growing up, Matt didn't feel welcomed in the hyper-masculine environment of school sports. It wasn't until his late twenties that he attended a bootcamp, where he felt supported for the first time. This revelation propelled him into the world of fitness on his own terms.
Building Fit Confident You: A Community for All
Seven years into his fitness journey, Matt created Fit Confident You, an online personal training platform tailored specifically for gay, bi, trans, and queer individuals. Recognising the discomfort many in his community experienced with mainstream fitness, Matt aimed to make fitness feel different—kind, inclusive, supportive, and above all, fun.
Beyond the Gym: Overcoming Barriers
Matt's conversations with clients reveal common roadblocks faced by many in the LGBTQ+ community, including self-doubt and societal pressures. His approach emphasises flexibility—helping individuals train at home, and overcome mental health challenges stemming from past traumas.
The Importance of Community in Fitness
Matt stresses the significance of community in achieving fitness goals, highlighting the magic that occurs in supportive spaces where individuals can share their experiences, encourage each other, and grow together. Retreats organized by Fit Confident You in picturesque locations like Italy and Portugal further emphasize this community connection.
Redefining Fitness: Balancing Aesthetics and Wellbeing
While many pursue fitness for physical transformation, Matt encourages setting diverse goals beyond aesthetics. By focusing on aspects like the joy of movement, overall health, and personal achievements, individuals can navigate their fitness journeys with a more balanced perspective.
Overcoming Personal Challenges: Advice from Matt
For those struggling to start or maintain a fitness routine, Matt shares his top tips: partner with friends for support, explore diverse motivations for staying active, and immerse yourself in inclusive communities. These strategies help individuals find the courage to embrace their unique journeys.
The Essence of Fit Confident You
Ultimately, Fit Confident You seeks to inspire confidence from within, rather than imposing unrealistic standards. By fostering an environment where everyone feels accepted and valued, Matt's platform makes fitness accessible and enjoyable for anyone ready to embark on their journey to self-improvement.
For more information about Matt's online programs, retreats, or to join the Fit Confident You community, visit www.fitteryou.net or follow him on Instagram @fitterconfidentyou Explore various free resources and discover how you can redefine fitness on your own terms. Thank you for joining us, and remember that your fitness journey is uniquely yours to embrace.
