Mega Huzzahs everyone,
Previously, we left off on Part one of “The Squat.”
If you have not read part one, open up this tab right now and learn not to be a coward after you read this.
We’ll get to Part Two – the question and answer section – shortly, but first I wanted to introduce a new column with our fitness series which I will call “Local Legends and International Heroes.” It’s about highlighting dope things in the fitness world by people I know. It’s a great way for you the reader to learn other perspectives, some may which be different than my own and also to give you some inspiration, some news you can use from a magnificent muse. Today it is a pleasure of mine to introduce you to a very innovated and ambitious young lady who has created a monumentally and melaninly (yes, as in “ly” of melanin, soon to be an oxford special) magnanimous movement – Miss Candace White of “Black Girls Lift.”
I asked her to sit down and tell me all about her Fatalistic Organization via the spoken word. First I’d like to remind you that Black Girls Lift has a workshop that you can register for, RIGHT NOW- SUNDAY JUNE 25TH AT ATLAS FITNESS – 920 11TH ST. SE.
Register right now by going to this link on Eventbrite.
Funfact: I’ll be there!
Now, on with the interview
1) Candace, for a while I thought “Black Girls Lift” was a dope hash tag on social media, but you turned it into a Melinated Movement of Monumental Greatness. Thank you! How did you get started and what inspired you to create “Black Girls Lift?” I was looking for an accountability and weightlifting partner. I planned a weightlifting workshop, and hoped that at least 1 person would show up. Over 100 women showed up to this event, and that’s when I realized there was a need for more education and training around lifting weights, and specifically for black women. And then…Black Girls Lift was born!
2) What is your personal fitness background? Did you ever play any sports or has fitness for you been more for recreation and personal development? I did not play any sports seriously during my younger years. I developed a passion for fitness and my highest level of fitness when I was training with the CDFit Boot Camp program. I joined the program because I was preparing for a pageant. Now, I truly love fitness and I don’t even feel right when I miss too many days from the gym!
3) Your own fitness regiment and beliefs? Consistency is key. Challenge yourself often. Find an accountability partner.
4) Biggest challenges in creating Black Girls Lift? I truly want to help black women become stronger, healthier, and happier. The biggest challenge is convincing women to make lifting weights la lifestyle change and not just a phase, and dissuading women from reverting back to their old habits once they begin a weight training program.
5) What do you do when women tell you the dreaded “but I don’t want to get bulky” response? Why do you think women should lift? There is a huge misconception that women who lift weights will become bulky. Actually, lifting weights has more of the opposite effect – it tightens and tones the muscles, and leans out the body. Contrary to popular belief, women do not have the genetic makeup or hormonal profile to bulk up. The benefits of lifting weights is extensive and wide-ranging. Women should lift weights because it results in increased metabolism, higher quality sleep, better blood circulation, lower blood pressure, and lower stress.
6) Your take on the fitness industry? Likes, Dislikes? What’s missing? I don’t like the statistic that 4 out of 5 African-American women are overweight. I would like to see black women place a higher emphasis on the importance of health and fitness, and I would love to see more women lifting weights at the gym.
7) Goal for Black Girls Lift, and a rewarding experience or testimonial so far? I would like to setup a chapter in every city across America, so that a black women could travel anywhere across the nation and still be able to attend a Black Girls Lift event.. Here’s a testimonial that I have received: “Black Girls Lift is an awesome community where I have received inspiration, instruction, and motivation to take my commitment to fitness to the next level. As a result, I’ve met friends, lost weight, gained muscle and been amazed at what can happen with the right support and a whole lot of determination.”
You can find Black Girls Lift through here at Meetup.com
And also on Instagram @blackgirlslift_
Remember to register for the next event for Sunday 25th 2-4pm at Atlas Fitness. 920 11th St. SE. Right between Easter Market and Harris Teeth by Potomac and Pennsylvania Ave. Register now by clicking HERE!
See you there!
Bill Walker is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), one of the top recognized agencies in the country. He’s also a Youth Fitness Coach in Washington DC. He enjoys lifting heavy things, giving the gift of battle, and good merriment with good people.
To set up an appointment or inquiry contact him at [email protected]
Instagram: @BilliusMaximus929
