Your Wellness, Your Way: Tips from Ace Rodriguez
In a world where accessing inclusive and affirming wellness resources can be a challenge, these tips and suggestions from Ace Rodriguez (they/them/siya), a fitness professional working out of the local Inglewood gym Every Body STRONGER, offer invaluable support for individuals within the 2SLGBTQ+ community. By reclaiming ownership of their bodies and embracing movement as a personal journey, Ace says individuals can find joy and fulfillment in their wellness pursuits. Additionally, the emphasis on patience, compassion, and finding supportive guidance ensures that everyone, regardless of their identity or experiences, can embark on a path to holistic well-being with confidence and resilience.
Wellness is personal: Make what you want of it.
“Navigating the realm of “health and wellness” presents challenges, particularly for those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, where accessing gender-affirming care or mental health services can be daunting. Negative experiences in exercise spaces are all too common. That's why I encourage clients to find joy in movement, whether it's a stroll, a stretch break at work, or daily tasks. Defining wellness on your terms allows you to reclaim ownership of your body and growth. There are no rules – embrace spontaneity, playfulness, rest, and prioritize joy.”
Ways to accomplish this:
Free options: Rediscover joy by playing on a nearby playground, exploring free fitness, dance, or yoga tutorials on YouTube, immersing yourself in your community and city through walking or cycling, or taking a refreshing dip in the river.
Low cost options: Consider affordable classes and recreational sports leagues provided by the City of Calgary, or search for package deals and discounted rates for classes or training sessions.
Embracing nonlinear movement: Find peace in the process
“Having experienced the highs and lows, the stops and starts, and my own love-hate relationship with the gym, I understand the frustration of finding my body in a different place than before. My connection with movement and my body evolves over time, and I constantly remind myself to meet my body where it is now. If you've taken a break from movement due to injury, surgery, medication changes, or life's whirlwind, I encourage you to return with patience and compassion.
Through my gender transition and self-discovery journey, I've learned that movement is a lifelong process without a fixed destination. While goals are essential, setting intentions and adapting as I progress is an ongoing journey. There's no rush, no deadline, as the investment in my well-being is lifelong. Regardless of the length of your break, the most crucial step is to simply try again.”
Ways to accomplish this:
To set yourself up for success, eliminate barriers hindering your restart. Leave your gym bag by the door for a visual prompt, or better yet, arrange a walk or join a class with a supportive friend.
Consider the 7-minute rule: commit to movement for just seven minutes. If you're still unenthusiastic or tired after that, allow yourself to opt out for the day. Try again tomorrow to see if anything changes; sometimes, a brief burst of activity can shift your mindset and reconnect you with your body.
If motivation eludes you, take a moment to uncover what truly inspires you to move. Assess your energy levels and capacity; perhaps you desire exercise, but your schedule is full. Motivation fluctuates, so understanding your driving force can significantly impact your approach to movement.
Discover your perfect support system
“If these strategies don't resonate with you or you're unsure where to start, consider seeking guidance from a fitness expert. While hiring a personal trainer can be costly, the knowledge and skills gained can profoundly impact your life. Like mastering any skill, the lessons learned from working with a trainer endure.
From my experience with clients in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, I've noticed a common thread of negative movement experiences. Many have never experienced joyful movement or feel disconnected from their bodies. Rebuilding this bond can be challenging, underscoring the importance of finding a trainer who understands your experiences. Their empathy can make a significant difference in guiding and supporting you effectively.”
Ways to accomplish this:
When selecting a trainer: Look for qualifications relevant to your needs (ask about education and certifications), preferably with additional training in areas like trauma-informed practices.
Evaluate the training environment: Is it inclusive of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals? Are policies in place to ensure your safety and well-being, including zero tolerance for discrimination?
Consider your budget for private sessions to guide trainers in creating a realistic plan for your progress. If finances are tight, discuss options with trainers - investing in expertise now can yield long-term benefits.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kaelyn Tremble
Mount Royal University
Bachelor of Arts - BA, Psychology
Pride In Business article in partnership with TD.
By Kaelyn Tremble