Gymnastics Lessons: Movement, Resilience, and Career Reinvention with Mia Lazarewicz episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 18, 2026 · 1H 11M

Gymnastics Lessons: Movement, Resilience, and Career Reinvention with Mia Lazarewicz

from The Empowered Gymnast Podcast

Gymnastics Lessons: Movement, Resilience, and Career Reinvention with Mia LazarewiczDiscover Mia Lazarewicz's inspiring journey from childhood gymnastics to becoming a competitor on American Ninja Warrior and a passionate personal trainer. In this episode, Mia shares candid insights on training, certifications, the nuances of gymnastics and ninja, and keys to effective communication in coaching.Key TopicsThe story behind Mia's diverse athletic background, including gymnastics and Ninja WarriorThe meaning and story behind Mia's playful certification "Certified F***ing Badass" (CFB)Insights into the crossover skills between gymnastics, ninja, parkour, and climbingPractical advice for incorporating weight training, kettlebells in particular, for gymnasts and young athletesThe importance of effective communication in coaching kids and adultsDebunking myths around weightlifting and muscle bulk in youth trainingThe beauty and challenge of mastering skills like vaults, dismounts, and the mental blocks in gymnasticsMia's experiences on American Ninja Warrior and what it teaches about mindset and living in the momentRecommendations for expanding your knowledge with books on neurology and the body-mind connectionTimestamps00:00 - The correct pronunciation of Lazarevich and Mia's diverse athletic background02:14 - The story behind Mia's unconventional certification "CFB" and its significance05:42 - Discussions on the real value of certifications versus actual ability08:15 - How Mia got into gymnastics and her accidental journey into personal training12:41 - The repeated comebacks in gymnastics and what drives persistent passion20:23 - Insights from Mia's seasons on American Ninja Warrior and the thrill of the competition23:56 - Comparing Ninja obstacles with gymnastics skills and cross-training tips28:22 - Starting strength training for gymnasts—why kettlebells are a smart choice32:45 - The critical role of movement patterns and how to teach proper hip hinging36:21 - The transferability of kettlebell swings to gymnastics and athletic power40:32 - Myths about muscle bulk from weightlifting and the truth about building strength42:50 - Review of Mia's book and key takeaways on communication and client interaction47:44 - How to handle coaching kids versus adults with patience and clarity55:23 - Gender stereotypes in childhood sports and the importance of encouragement58:56 - Mia's recent shift in perspective on walking as a vital form of exercise61:52 - Recommended books on neurology, neuroplasticity, and the mind-body connection66:50 - The fascinating neural phenomena of phantom limbs and brain maps69:48 - How athletic observation and gymnastics aid in understanding human movement73:30 - The need for better gymnastics commentary to educate viewers74:24 - Ways to connect with Mia and her resources for fitness and coachingResources & LinksTrainWithMia.comInstagram: @thebossiraptorBecoming a Personal Trainer (Book)

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Gymnastics Lessons: Movement, Resilience, and Career Reinvention with Mia Lazarewicz

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This episode was published on February 18, 2026.

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