Why I Love Empowering Women Through Strength Training

Just eight years ago, when I first started as a personal trainer focused on strength training, the fitness industry looked very different—especially for women. The mainstream narrative centered on yoga and Pilates, and if women lifted weights at all, they were encouraged to keep it light to avoid getting “too bulky.”

Looking back, it’s wild how much things have changed—and how quickly. Now, more and more women are embracing strength training, and each week brings new research and real-life stories highlighting its benefits. But we’re still just getting started.

I work with so many women who are strength training for the first time in their lives. They come into Discovery Sessions feeling uncertain, vulnerable, and unsure of where to begin. Many have spent years believing that physical strength wasn’t for them—or wasn’t necessary. And honestly, it breaks my heart.

But it also reaffirms exactly why I do this work.

Because with every story of hesitation, there’s a story of transformation:

• “I carried a bag of dog food without any help.”

• “I planted my garden with no back pain.”

• “This is where I wanted to come after a stressful week.”

• “I feel younger now than I did 10 years ago.”

These wins might sound simple—but they represent so much more. They’re stories of self-trust, resilience, and empowerment.

So how does physical strength training empower women mentally?

When you show up for yourself consistently, you start to rebuild your trust in yourself.

When you push yourself to your limit and come back stronger, you prove to yourself that you can do hard things.

When you take small, committed actions—even when life is chaotic—you show yourself that your well-being matters.

Strength training isn’t just about lifting weights. It’s about reclaiming your power.

And while I love training men too, I started Breakthrough Fitness MN because I wanted to create a space where people who often feel intimidated—especially women and LGBTQ+ folks—could feel welcome, safe, and supported.

You don’t need to earn your rest or your confidence. You don’t need to prove your worth before investing in your health. You are worthy right now.

I’d love to hear from you—what makes you feel empowered? Drop a comment or share your story. Let’s keep lifting each other up.