Advocating for Women's Health Through Fitness
FIT4MOM x Jessica Maurer
Women's health is complex and multifaceted, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Women have historically prioritized others' needs over their own, particularly when it comes to health and fitness. The roles of caregiver, mother, and nurturer have often led women to self-sacrifice, placing family, work, and community responsibilities above their own well-being. This pattern can result in ignoring personal health, leading to burnout, stress, and physical ailments.
Women often deprioritize their fitness routines, viewing exercise as a luxury rather than a necessity. Mothers, in particular, may struggle with guilt, feeling that time spent on self-care is selfish or takes away from their family. This mindset can result in long inactivity, negatively affecting their physical and mental well-being.
Women neglecting their fitness impacts every aspect of their health—muscle loss, joint pain, reduced cardiovascular health, and a weakened immune system. Mentally, the effects can include anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection from their bodies. The emotional toll of constant caregiving without nurturing oneself can erode self-esteem and resilience.
Changing the Narrative
Thankfully, more women recognize the importance of advocating for themselves in healthcare and daily self-care routines. Fitness is increasingly seen as a form of empowerment, where making time for movement is a way to reclaim control over one’s health. Small but consistent habits—like a daily walk or a short workout—can substantially affect well-being.
Women are learning that self-care isn't selfish; it's essential for their ability to care for others. By prioritizing their health, women can model strength and resilience for their families, helping shift the cultural caregiving expectations.
Being your own health advocate isn’t just about doctor’s appointments and medication—it’s about making daily choices that promote long-term well-being. One of the most powerful forms of self-advocacy is making time for movement, not just structured exercise. Movement is essential to physical, mental, and emotional health, and prioritizing it is a key part of advocating for your overall well-being.
Why Advocating for Exercise is Essential
Movement is Medicine
Regular exercise is vital for maintaining heart health, building strength, and boosting your immune system, but its benefits extend beyond the physical. Movement improves mental clarity, reduces stress, and enhances mood by releasing endorphins, helping to combat anxiety and depression. By prioritizing movement, you’re giving your body and mind the resources to stay resilient and strong.
Still trying to figure out where to start? Let us help you. FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading company for pre and postnatal health, wellness, and fitness programs for every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy through postpartum and beyond, our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind, and spirit.
Taking Control of Your Health
Being your own health advocate means recognizing that movement is a non-negotiable part of self-care. Whether it’s a morning yoga routine, a lunchtime walk, or stretching while doing daily tasks, movement helps you maintain control over your health. It’s an active way to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis—issues that disproportionately affect women. When you make time for exercise, you’re empowering yourself to live a healthier, more energetic life.
We understand that some days you won’t make it to a live class with us. This is why we created FIT4MOM On Demand. Whether you have 10 minutes to listen to a Mama Masterclass during meal prep or 40 minutes to workout during nap time, we have something designed just for you. Moms designed FIT4MOM On Demand for moms, and it offers total-body workouts and wellness programs for every age and stage of motherhood.
Use the code “YourVoice” to enroll in FIT4MOM On Demand for 2 weeks free + 40% off the annual rate.
Long-Term Benefits
Incorporating both formal exercise and more casual movement throughout the day can have long-term benefits. Whether lifting weights or taking extra steps, movement supports bone density, flexibility, and longevity. For women, especially, preserving bone and joint health as you age is crucial, and regular movement is one of the best preventive actions you can take.
Speaking of benefits...
We have an extensive list of fitness resources for you to try. Here are a few of our favorites:
By moving a priority, you’re powerfully advocating for your health. Exercise is not just about staying fit; it’s about ensuring that your body and mind have the support they need to function optimally. When you advocate for your fitness, you’re not just taking control of your health—you’re setting an example for others to do the same.
Taking ownership of your well-being, including regular movement, empowers you to lead a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. Remember, as your own personal health advocate, you must prioritize your needs, make informed decisions, and create space for movement in your daily routine.
