A trans guide to weightlifting, strength training, and the perils of gym culture
GT speaks with a range of experts in the queer fitness space about how to get a gender-affirming summer body. Words by HAN SCHNEIDER Art by ANA BENAROYA “Outside of medical experts, it’s hard to think of someone who knows more about the human body than a trans person,” says Lara Americo, personal trainer and owner of Ghost Gym. “I feel like trans folks are often very, very skilled at analyzing their bodies, which can be a double-edged sword.
When it comes to weightlifting and fitness, it can be a huge strength — if we can move through it without being discriminated against, unsafe, or debilitated by dysphoria.” On one hand, weightlifting, or strength training, can yield gender-affirming benefits for trans people in ways that make it easier and more empowering to be in one’s body.
On the other hand, Ilya Parker, Owner of Decolonizing Fitness knows that the gym can also be a source of distress or even harm for many trans folks.
The safest, most empowering path lies somewhere in a delicate balance of aesthetic goals, gym accessibility, and medical needs. What does strength training have to offer trans people? Trans people are no strangers to thinking about their bodies and trying to feel better in them.
