Taking Up Space: Fitness, Strength, and Self-Worth with Tara DeLeon (Episode 41)

Many women see fitness as a punishment, but what if it could be empowering instead? In this episode, Carrie sits down with personal trainer, professor, speaker, and author Tara DeLeon to discuss how strength training can transform not just your body, but your mindset.Tara shares her journey of breaking through fitness industry stereotypes, why women should take up space in the gym, and how shifting from a "have to" to a "get to" mentality around exercise can change everything. They dive into topics like weight-neutral fitness, strength training for midlife women, and how to navigate toxic diet culture while still prioritizing your health.If you've ever felt intimidated by the weight room or struggled with body confidence, this conversation will leave you feeling strong, empowered, and ready to lift—both in the gym and in life.About Tara:Tara DeLeon is a personal trainer, professor of health and exercise studies, speaker, and author dedicated to helping women feel strong, confident, and empowered—at any size. Specializing in weight-neutral fitness, she challenges traditional diet culture and teaches her clients how to lift weights, build resilience, and take up space in the gym without apology.With a background in exercise science and strength coaching, Tara has helped hundreds of women ditch unrealistic fitness expectations and embrace movement as a form of self-care, not punishment. She is also the co-host of the Wellness Rebranded podcast, where she discusses the intersection of fitness, nutrition, and mental health.Connect with Tara:Website: https://www.ptdistinction.com/taradeleonfitnessInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tara_de_leon_fitness/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaraDeLeonFitnessPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wellness-rebranded-intuitive-eating-diet-culture-food/id1651744916Follow Carrie on:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carriechojnowski/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carrie.o.chojnowskiVisit https://thrivewithcarrie.com/ to book a free discovery call!See you next time!Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.