The story of

Asia Rawls, an IT analyst and track coach from Detroit USA. An advocate for helping all women, regardless of their age, activity level or economic status to move for their mental health.

With a demanding job and a busy schedule, Asia knows first-hand how time and work pressures can negatively impact activity levels. She wants more women to understand that movement can be anything from a 15-minute walk or jog to a quick at-home workout and is much more than just long gruelling hours in the gym every day.

Outside of work, she coaches and supports other busy women in Detroit to run, providing them with a safe, supportive environment, that fits around their work or childcare responsibilities. Asia is passionate about using exercise to challenge female stereotypes, emphasising that everyone, regardless of their age or economic status can and should embrace movement.

“We need to challenge stereotypes associated with women exercising. There's a perception that intense exercise is selfish or obsessive, and women may face judgement from others, including their peers and partners. Shifting this mindset requires a more inclusive view of exercise as a normal and essential part of life. Recognising that the enjoyment of exercise varies each time, we need to emphasise that it doesn't demand a gruelling hour-long workout or an expensive gym membership. It's about making exercise accessible, enjoyable and an integral part of general well-being.”

Across all of Asia’s local run clubs and community building endeavours, she sees how exercise brings joy to the mind and body. Asia’s goal is to empower women to prioritise their wellbeing and experience the numerous benefits that come with it.

The story of

Dr Jowhara Al-Qahtani, a surgeon from Qatar, underscores the importance of a healthy work-life balance.

Advocating for change at macro and micro levels, Dr Jowhara focuses on mindset transformation and self-awareness.

Outside of her demanding career as a surgeon, Dr Jowhara founded Run The World, a women’s only running team, which provides a judgement-free space for women of diverse backgrounds and fitness levels.

“To re-define what movement means to women, we must address both the internal and external barriers faced, such as motivation, health issues and societal expectations. Creating a more inclusive exercise culture requires both societal mindset shifts and individual self-awareness. As a running coach and founder of Run The World, I work to break down these barriers by fostering a supportive and judgement-free environment for women of all sizes and fitness levels.”

Having experienced the challenges of balancing a demanding profession with personal life, her motivation stems from a desire to guide individuals to become their own heroes. She is passionate about everybody being able to embrace the benefits of exercise and unlock their potential.

The story of

Cosima Davies, a secondary school teacher from the UK. A role model for young people to see the power of movement on our minds.

Cosima has always had an on/off relationship with exercise. Feeling intimated and excluded from sport as a child, she is now passionate about incorporating movement into her student’s daily lives and ensuring girls of all abilities are included in exercise from a young age.

Cosima’s early perception of exercise was that it was a tool for weight management, a consequence of the 90s and 00s magazine culture. This led her to believe that exercise was a ‘punishment’ or ‘chore’.

"Gender stereotypes and the lack of diverse role models is a huge barrier to exercise for women. As a secondary school teacher, I take my responsibility as a role model seriously, sharing my personal experiences with my students and teaching them about the impact gender stereotypes can have on life chances. By breaking down these barriers and introducing divers role models, we can promote a more inclusive approach to exercise, regardless of gender."

As an educator, Cosima actively challenges these negative connotations with exercise. She re-enforces the positive physical and mental benefits of staying active. As a role model, she shows that exercise is not only fun but also a powerful tool for stress relief and skill development, however this is no linear journey and that both failures and successes are normal.

The story of

Jessica Robson, a marketing manager from Brighton and founder of "Run Talk Run". Motivated to re-define exercise as movement for the mind.

Jess Robson fell in love with running after it provided an outlet for her while suffering from depression and low confidence. Leaving her runs feeling proud, accomplished and stronger mentally, Jess decided she wanted others who were suffering to discover running.

Out of this "Run Talk Run" - a global community of accessible running and walking mental health support groups – was born.

“Exercise has a huge impact on my mental health. I started "Run Talk Run" - running and walking peer support groups with a mission to make both movement and mental health support less intimidating and more accessible. Running was an outlet for me and made me realise that we need to make being honest about our mental health far less intimidating. The key is ensuring women feel safe and supported to take that first step.”

Motivated by the women she’s already helped and the countless women she still wants to reach, Jess and "Run Talk Run" continue to use their platform to champion a more inclusive and empowering exercise culture.

The story of

Naho Usami, actress and sports events MC from Japan. Determined to ensure all women, especially mothers, benefit from an inclusive exercise culture.

Naho is motivated by the profound impact sports has had on her life – creating friendships, finding support and relieving stress. She wants to share these feelings with all women, across the globe.

Beyond her professional roles, Naho actively supports a women’s only running club as an ASICS Japan “Running Navigator.” Through this group, a supportive community has been created, where participants, sharing similar exercise levels, feel confident, safe and enjoy open communication.

“We must foster supportive communities for women. I firmly believe that sports should seamlessly integrate into everyone's life and am dedicated to fostering a more inclusive exercise culture globally, one where everyone can confidently embrace the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle. As a running navigator with ASICS Japan, I lead women-only running programs, creating a secure and encouraging environment for women. Here, women feel both safe and empowered, feeling able to talk freely.”

Identifying motherhood as a significant barrier to women’s exercise, Naho is committed to breaking this obstacle down. She aims to ensure that all women can feel the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise.

The story of

Ili Kamal a digital content creator, fitness instructor and coach from Malaysia. Advocates and promotes strength training for women of all ages, emphasising that it’s not a sport just for men.

As a woman who loves weight training, Ili knows all too well how off-putting ‘gym intimidation’ is. She wants more women to know that they have the right to feel comfortable working out.

Having experienced that daunting challenge of gym intimidation herself, and now trading the treadmill for weights, Ili knows the damage a lack of confidence and fear can have. Through her digital content creation and fitness classes, Ili provides a safe and inviting space for women to workout freely without judgement.

“To bridge the gender exercise gap, we must tackle internal barriers like fear and lack of confidence, alongside external challenges of limited platforms for women. As an advocate of strength training for women of all ages, I educate and motivate women through digital content creation and judgement-free online classes, providing them with a supportive platform to develop at their own pace.”

Her goal is to empower women to embrace the journey of working out, emphasising the importance of breaking stereotypes and myths surrounding women in fitness. She aims to ensure every woman has access to private spaces equipped for workouts and coaches who understand the unique phases of a woman’s fitness journey.

The story of

Lulwah, Saudi Arabian Athletic Masters Federation athlete. Challenging societal norms and stereotypes through her love of running.

Growing up with a passion for athletics, Lulwah made history as the first Saudi woman to join the Athletic Masters Federation.

Lulwah is passionate about breaking barriers that hinder women from embracing exercise. Drawing from personal experiences, Lulwah confronts societal norms in Saudi Arabia, where running for women is still a new phenomenon. Despite the initial discomfort of being stared at, questioned, and even yelled at, she sought solace in running groups for safety, refusing to be deterred from her passion.

“As the first Saudi woman to join the Athletics Masters Federation, I aspire for every woman in my country to embrace exercise and prioritise their physical and mental well-being. Running has been transformative, from dispelling negative thought patterns to realising my strength. I am driven to break stereotypes, foster inclusivity and reshape societal perceptions of women in sports within Saudi Arabia.”

As a trailblazer, Lulwah’s motivation to create a more inclusive exercise culture stems from the transformative impact of running on her own life. Acknowledging the need for change, she passionately encourages women to prioritise physical activity, challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions about women in sports.

The story of

Karen Guttridge, a trainer and coach from Hampshire UK. Passionate about supporting women aged 50+ to exercise.

After discovering there were limited opportunities for women her age to exercise, Karen aged 62 established “Sole Sisters,” a local running group specifically for women aged 45 and above. Expecting five ladies to join the first session, Karen was overwhelmed when over seventy like-minded women signed up – showing the demand for this type of community.

Offering free running programmes for all exercise levels and an inviting, safe and judgement-free space for like-minded women to connect, the group has been an overwhelming success and supported many women to move and feel confident in doing so.

"Breaking down barriers for everyone is about representation, education, and community. As a woman over the age of 50, I faced challenges such as embarrassment, a lack of representation in media, and concerns about engaging in certain vigorous activities. By spotlighting women over 50, providing accurate information on aging and fitness, and creating niche-specific groups, we can empower women to confidently and inclusively embrace exercise.”

Having personally faced the same barriers she now seeks to dismantle; Karen understands the demoralising impact of age-related exclusion from exercise and the vital importance of representation and inclusivity.

The story of

Sasha Gollish, a Canadian competitive runner and Engineer & Researcher in the Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre (MPARC) at the University of Toronto in Canada. Dedicated to breaking barriers for women and promoting inclusivity in fitness

Embarking on competitive running at age 30, Sasha shows that you can start moving at any age and embodies that we should feel a sense of belonging when exercising.

Alongside running, Sasha contributes to developing and testing exercise intervention programs in MPARC, aiming to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact. One of their latest projects, Sport & Physical Activity in Ontario Schools, focuses on the participation of girls in sports and physical activity and aims to identify barriers within school environments.

“We need to reframe the meaning of physical activity and not allow ourselves to be shamed into exercise culture. Personalisation and accessibility are key – we must empower women to do what’s best for them. Even a short power walk or running around with children in the park should be viewed as physical activity!”

Identifying time and cost as significant barriers for women in exercise, Sasha believes a shift in mindset can help and advocates for the integration of movement into everyday activities, such as work and childcare. She challenges conventional advice for women during pregnancy or illness, urging a reconsideration that stopping all movement is the solution. Sasha also stresses the need for more female role models, intersectional diversity in research and continued efforts towards reshaping the narrative of the male-dominated, thin ideal exercise culture. Motivated by connecting with diverse individuals and the joy of movement and play, Sasha envisions a future where the narrative around exercise embraces inclusivity and breaks away from traditional norms, offering varied ways to stay active and healthy.

The story of

Nathalia Fuzaro, a journalist and entrepreneur from Brazil. Passionately advocates for a shift in the female mindset in the realm of exercise. She encourages women to uplift and support one another in their fitness journeys.

Growing up, Nathalia faced a lot of prejudice – being told she was too small to be a triathlete or that she should be taking care of her family and home.

Having personally faced challenges, from the lack of childhood encouragement to adult prejudices, Nathalia is determined to ensure her niece and future generations of women do not experience the same.

“A shift needs to change within the ‘female mindset.’ We need to empower each other, cheer and support other women and not feel guilty when taking care of ourselves. As a journalist and athlete, I create events that inform and gather women, allowing them to experience and understand the value of exercise and how it can empower us, beyond health.”

As a journalist and athlete, Nathalia collaborates with publications and brands to create content and events that inform and inspire women, emphasising a culture where self-care is prioritised without guilt.

The story of

Sonya Danita Charles, model and founder of the Vitiligo Association Malaysia. Dedicated to dismantling barriers that hinder women’s engagement in exercise.

Passionate about body positivity, Sonya advocates for women to embrace their beauty against societal odds. Having faced the pressures of unrealistic beauty standards, she calls for a cultural shift that celebrates diverse body types, enabling women to exercise without judgement or restriction.

Beyond her role as a model, Sonya shares personal stories to inspire women and promote body positivity. She challenges harmful stereotypes surrounding models, using education and awareness to shift perceptions about unhealthy practices.

“A transformative cultural shift challenging conventional beauty norms, celebrating diverse body types and emphasising exercise as self-love and empowerment is needed to change the narrative. As a model advocating for body positivity, my goal is to inspire women to embrace their fitness journey with confidence and enthusiasm to foster an inclusive and compassionate fitness culture. With increased education and awareness, we can all play a role in dismantling barriers.”

Sonya’s driving force lies deep in the belief that all women should feel seen, accepted and empowered to thrive in their own unique journeys.

The story of

Sophie Powers, GB ultra-runner and founder of SheRACES. Determined to create an environment where women of all backgrounds, ages, shapes and abilities are encouraged to race.

After a poignant photo captured Sophie breastfeeding her three-month-old baby at an aid station during the 106-mile Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc, Sophie was fueled by a desire to address gender inequality and the unique challenges women face in the intersection of racing and childbirth.

After missing out on the joys and benefits of exercise growing up, having felt excluded from sports in school and lacking encouragement from her parents, Sophie is now driven to ensure that her daughter and all girls feel there are no barriers to sport.

“Crossing a finish line and achieving our goal can give us so much confidence throughout our lives. But races often put barriers up – from tight cut-offs to language and imagery that makes us feel unwelcome. I don’t want to just inspire some women to climb over these barriers. I want to help take them down for every woman.”

Out of this, the SheRACES campaign was born. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to race and an equal experience when they do, SheRACES represents a transformative movement toward a more inclusive future for the running community. From pregnancy deferral policies, inclusive imagery and period products to t-shirts that fit, enhancing safety measures and equal media coverage, Sophie empowers female athletes across the world to not only fight for equal rights in racing but to also challenge the narrative around a mothers’ priorities.

The story of

Natália Leão, a journalist, digital content creator and entrepreneur from Brazil. Empowers women to discover their true strength, on and off the running track.

As a runner, tennis player, and surfer, Natália confronts female harassment and stereotypes in the industry, drawing from personal experiences of growing up in the world of sports.

Motivated by a mission to protect her 11-year-old stepdaughter from similar challenges, alongside Nathalia, Natália co-founded Inspira and Transpira, an online community supporting and encouraging women in sport. Together, they call for societal change through education, public support and brand encouragement.

“We must confront deep-rooted barriers such as sexism, insecurity and gender expectations. Combatting these issues necessitates education, encouragement from brands and more inclusive campaigns. In my role as a digital content creator, I lead a diverse community, emphasising that physical activity empowers women by revealing their strength for broader life challenges. Having faced gender-based violence, my motivation stems from preventing such experiences for future generations. I've chosen to fight against sexism, viewing sports not just as personal performance, but as a battleground for inclusivity and empowerment."

Natália believes change can take place through early education for boys, and girls, in the hope that everyone can feel the benefits of exercise. Natália uses her platform to share that sport is an important tool for female empowerment – when a woman challenges herself in a sport, she discovers her own strength.

The story of

Natalie Dau, ultra-runner, best-selling author and media trainer, from Singapore. Advocates for women to put themselves first and feel empowered to prioritise their mental and physical wellbeing.

As an accomplished athlete, Co-author of “Run Like a Woman,” founder of the Rockstar Fit App and mother, Natalie is on a mission to make fitness accessible to all.

Growing up with a passion for exercise, Natalie faced a significant challenge during pregnancy when diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Unable to run, Natalie was left feeling disconnected from her mind and body. Reflecting on this journey, she emphasises the transformative power of bringing physical activity back into her life to release stress and reclaim personal space.

“Interestingly, under 40s aren’t exercising as much as older women, which may stem from evolving lifestyle demands, career pressures and societal expectations. We need to think about targeted interventions and awareness campaigns to address barriers and foster a more inclusive approach to women’s fitness at all life stages.”

Identifying self-confidence as a key barrier to exercise, with concerns ranging from body image to fear of judgement, Natalie encourages women to feel empowered and to take control of their time without guilt. Motivated by the belief that movement brings joy, positivity and life-changing benefits, Natalie sees it as a universal connector that transcends cultural, ethnic, gender and background boundaries. Her latest project, Project 1000, involves a 1,000km run from Thailand to Singapore, aiming to raise awareness and funds to bridge the gender exercise gap and promote body positivity across cultures.

The story of

Tenia Fisher, co-founder of FEAR MKE and Director of Community Partnerships from Milwaukee USA. Dedicated to creating safe and inclusive places for women in the fitness world.

Tenia Fisher co-founded FEAR (Forget Everything and Run) MKE, an inclusive and diversity powered run group, after leaving college where she competed athletically.

Feeling a loss of identify, FEAR MKE not only allowed Tenia to re-find herself, yet to also change the narrative of ‘people of colour don’t run or care about their health.’ Tenia also sits on the board of Girls on the Run, a national program inspiring young girls and women to be active and build their confidence through lessons that incorporate running and other physical activities.

“More women-owned gyms and uplifting programs for young girls, like FEAR MKE, contribute to building a more inclusive culture. Facing personal challenges, from gym insecurities to racial disparities, motivates me to create a safe environment for women as they embark on their fitness journey.”

Identifying issues like time constraints, gym intimidation and racial disparities, she advocates for men to be allies, calls for the establishment of more women-owned gyms, and actively promotes and safer and more inclusive Milwaukee.