Stronger Together. Healthier For Life
We envision a world where all women- regardless of age, race, or income- can access strength training that empowers them to live longer, stronger, and more independent lives.
Strength Is Essential. For Everybody.
Strength training is one of the most effective ways to improve long-term health for both men and women—boosting heart, bone, brain, and metabolic health. Just two sessions a week can reduce chronic disease risk, enhance mood, prevent age-related decline, and significantly extend lifespan.
Improves cognitive function, lowers risk of dementia
Decreases cardiovascular mortality by 19%
Helps mitigate age related bone loss,
reduces fracture risk
Increases muscle mass, decreases risk of metabolic syndrome.
60min/wk decreases all cause mortality by up to 27%
The Gender Gap In Strength Training
Only 20% of adult women, and fewer than 1 in 6 adolescent girls meet the CDC’s minimum recommendations for strength training. Research has shown that gender based stigmas, lack of knowledge, and social/economic barriers are significant contributing factors for why women and girls remain underrepresented in this vital form of exercise.
Women and girls are less likely to be encouraged to lift weights, and are more likely to participate in aerobic exercise over strength training.
Women site intimidation, and “not wanting to take up space” in male-dominated gyms, with 56% of female gym goers reporting harassment, 2.68 times higher than that for men.
Media and societal expectations about female body image contribute to fears of appearing “bulky” or unfeminine, despite scientific evidence to the contrary.
Women report decreased comfort in using gym facilities, with lack of guidance, insufficient social support, and financial cost as barriers that reduce adherence to strength training programs.
Social support, training in a group setting, and feeling part of a community are key facilitators for women’s engagement in regular strength training.
Strength Training Matters More For Women
Midlife Transition
Women are more affected by age-related strength decline due to hormonal shifts and life stage changes such as menopause. Strength training is especially critical for preserving health and independence.
3-Times The Impact
When compared to men, women derive greater benefit from strength training, with up to a 3 fold impact on cardiovascular health with each strength session.
Need To Start Early
Women are underserved in strength training, yet they stand to benefit the most. Starting early can change everything.
The Strength Initiative Solution
As a physician founded nonprofit, we combine evidence-based training with expert lead programming and community support, to close the gender gap in strength, and empower women for lifelong health.
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Programs For All Women
Small Group Strength Training
Movement and Mocktails
Women’s Wellness Workshops
Strength Starts Young
Strength Is Ageless -
How We Operate
Pay-What-You-Can Pricing
Trauma-Informed & Inclusive
Community Focused
Science & Evidence Based -
Our Values
Respect
Empowerment
Accessibility
Evidence-Based
Community Driven
What Our Lifters Are Saying
“I am getting stronger and learning how to lift correctly. This is a friendly and affirming environment. I call my class The Grannies Get Greater!”
- Lifter, 77yo
