During my developmental years, I was often characterized as “flamboyant” due to my expressive, energetic, and passionate nature. Regrettably, my interests and zeal made others uncomfortable, resulting in derogatory remarks like “man up” and homophobic slurs, despite my attempts to assimilate. Little did I know that my queerness would ultimately evolve from a burden into a significant asset in my life.
As the offspring of a preacher, I internalized the notion of leadership from an early age, believing that I had a calling to lead. Surprisingly, my path to leadership manifested through health and wellness, unbeknownst to me. Fitness became an unexpected means of self-expression. During college, my love for fitness blossomed, particularly during a transformative summer spent with my father, who instilled in me the belief that “your body is your billboard,” showcasing your dedication and discipline. Exercising with my father daily was a turning point, and I became captivated by the results. Subsequently, I secured a position as a performer at Universal Studios in Singapore, using the same workouts as warm-ups for my shows. It was during this period that I began to realize the power of sculpting my body. Through this transformation, I discovered that the lessons of focus, drive, consistency, and discipline which I gained in the gym were applicable to all aspects of my life, propelling me to pursue any goal.
Following extensive training, I discovered that young Black performers sought fitness advice from me, leading to the formation of group workouts before our shows. These sessions evolved into a form of therapy, providing an opportunity for us to bond over our shared experiences, including our strict church upbringings, love for southern cooking, and devotion to Beyoncé, all while engaging in physical activity. This environment allowed us to unapologetically embrace our true selves, something many of us had longed for. That’s when I realized that my workouts had transcended into a ministry, inspiring and uplifting others.
However, it hasn’t always been a seamless journey, particularly in the fitness industry. I encountered spaces where my Blackness and queerness felt more like a mere checkmark than valued perspectives. Regrettably, discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is not a new phenomenon, as it has been ingrained in unjust laws and societal biases throughout history. Witnessing the unwavering strength and resilience of my best friend, a Black trans woman, amid the adversities she faced, inspired me to honor my true self and support others like us. Her example became the catalyst for my mission to amplify LGBTQ+ representation in fitness.
Fortunately, there are individuals and organizations paving the way to create a more inclusive fitness landscape. As a personal trainer, I launched the YouTube series Silent Disco HIIT in 2022 to foster a connection with my community while featuring workouts set to Black queer music. The Silent Disco creates a safe space for like-minded individuals to move freely and sculpt their bodies. While open to everyone, the essence of my classes is rooted in the LGBTQ+ community, defying societal norms and celebrating individuality. I take pride in the fact that over 60 percent of my clientele are Black queer men.
Beyond my efforts, there are notable leaders in the realm of fitness, such as Todd Brandon Morris, the owner of OUT-FIT, a New York City gym offering a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community at any stage of their fitness journey. Similarly, Tyriek Taylor, a Texas-based trainer, is leveraging his platform to destigmatize HIV diagnoses. Rob Kearney, an athlete with the Out Foundation, has emerged as the first openly gay Strongman, and Landyn Pan, a transgender trainer, is nurturing a sense of belonging within his clients and community. These are just a few examples of the hope and strength embodied within the LGBTQ+ community.
As I continue my journey, I have come to realize the paramount importance of authenticity. Embracing our individual stories and presenting our genuine selves is crucial, as it serves as a beacon for others to find and resonate with us. Every LGBTQ+ person should embrace and celebrate their authenticity, and it is my aspiration to equip POC/queer individuals in all facets of life with the courage to share their stories. By showcasing our excellence across various fields, we can shatter stereotypes and illuminate the diverse narratives that deserve to be heard.
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