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Feeling comfortable and happy with yourself is a topical discussion and something that is important to us here at Goodlife. We want to introduce you to 4 of our favourite LGBTQI+ fitness influencers who are making a positive impact in our clubs. Get ready to feel inspired to be unapologetically you with expert health and fitness advice and empowered to reject the unattainable “body goals” that seem to be consistently trending in our feeds.
What’s better than dance, drag and fitness advice centred around body positivity? Honestly, nothing if you ask us and that’s exactly what you’ll find on Johnny’s feed. As a Group Fitness Instructor at Goodlife and a Les Mills Reebok Athlete, it’s safe to say Johnny knows what’s up when it comes to health and fitness.
What inspires you most about working in the fitness industry?
I love the community I can create. Some of my closest friends are people I’ve met in Group Fitness Classes or while training. Sometimes we focus so much on the aesthetic benefits of fitness but the mental and emotional benefits are just as important.
What is your number one message to anyone who is feeling nervous or insecure about joining a gym?
The first step is always the hardest but everyone starts with a first step. Try your best not to compare - comparison is the thief of joy and fitness should be fun.
What is something small that anyone can do to be a LGBTQI+ ally in the gym and create a safe space for every body to workout?
Making assumptions about someone's behaviour or personality can lead to background chatter and create a vibe that no one wants to be a part of. For someone who is looking to be a LGBTQI+ ally - ignorance isn't bliss. Ask questions and get to know more about the community. The more you know, the better armed you are to be that support for someone who may need it.
If you’re looking for some wholesome content like sweet selfies, aspirational make-up and fitness advice anchored by reality then look no further, we’ve found your next follow. Matt is an Arena Fitness Coach, Studio Manager and Les Mills Squad Presenter and he isn’t afraid to empower people to be unapologetically themselves.
What are some of the mental health benefits you’ve gained from a regular exercise routine?
Fitness has benefited me so much with not only my confidence but my mental health. It's so important to me to have a regular fitness routine; I use training to unwind and just focus on one thing for that hour.
LGBTQI+ representation in the fitness industry is so important, what positive industry changes are you seeing in this space?
I am so happy that the Olympics have started to shift and be more inclusive - not only are there 163 LGBTQI+ athletes competing in the Tokyo Olympics, but that number includes the first Trans Olympian, Laurel Hubbard. Very exciting.
If you could create your own Group Fitness Class for Goodlife, what would it be?
I would make a fitness and mindful hybrid class. A class for everybody, full of mindful fitness circuits that ends with yoga or meditation.
Does your weekly routine involve working full time, teaching Group Fitness Classes at Goodlife, playing hockey, bouldering and working towards your goal to compete in the 2032 Olympics as part of the LGBTQI+ inclusivity in sport movement? Because that’s exactly what Claire’s week looks like and we can’t think of anything more inspiring. If you want to break up your scroll with some real good vibes (and a spontaneous Marvel reference) then give Claire a follow.
What inspires you most about working in the LGBTQI+ fitness community?
It’s just really cool knowing there are people like me doing the same things I’m doing! For so long I was ashamed of who I was and felt very alone despite being surrounded by people. Seeing people feel empowered through fitness gave me the confidence to put in the work to do that myself.
Do you have any body positivity mantras or advice you can share with people who are ‘doing the work’ towards body acceptance?
As someone who is still working on theirs I don’t really have a mantra. What I’m currently working on is each time I say something negative in my mind about myself I’ll say ‘no’ and then rephrase it. My brain doesn’t always believe it, but the more you do it the more positive thoughts come first and less constant work is needed.
What’s your go to anti-diet meal or food prep?
My whole outlook on food is anti-diet to be honest! The only way I can do food without it becoming mentally unhealthy is not to focus on it too much. I just try to make good choices and it’s always a bit of a work in progress.
If you like a good dose of cute doggos and pride rainbows as you scroll, then Luke is your new Fitfluencer. As a Goodlife Group Fitness Instructor, Mentor to Future Trainers & PT’s, Developer of Training Programs at Goodlife and Sponsored Les Mills Reebok Athlete, there is literally nothing that can slow Luke down and we would 100% recommend throwing him a follow.
What are some small first steps we can take to put our physical and mental health first?
For mental health there are two things that can help. The first is to find a positive moment in each day. The second is to take 10 minutes each day to do something you really enjoy (other than watching Netflix). Try meditating, listening to music, reading a book, journalling, going for a walk or talking with friends.
For physical health try finding a type of exercise you enjoy. Some options are Group Fitness Classes, lifting weights or strength training, going for a walk or run and dancing. The next step is to make this part of your regular weekly routine to give your exercise consistency. On top of that, try to balance your nutrition. It's ok to enjoy the things we like but the healthy options should be there too.
As a Group Fitness Instructor at Goodlife, how do you foster an inclusive training environment?
I try to introduce myself to as many members as I can pre and post class so I can get to know everyone on a more personal level. I always offer lots of praise and encouragement to make people feel like my class is a safe space, where their efforts are acknowledged and rewarded no matter their fitness level. I’m also a chronic oversharer - I tell everyone what's going on in my life and encourage open communication so we can all relate to and understand each other.
What is your favourite Goodlife Group Fitness Class to teach and why?
Body Combat has to be my favourite. Who doesn't like feeling like Bruce Lee, Buffy, PO from Kung Fu Panda or Xena? It's the kind of class you can do after a long crappy day and release all the pent up frustration and then leave feeling good again.