Training Considerations for Trans Individuals

Exercise can provide numerous benefits for transgender people who are transitioning. One of the most significant benefits is the positive impact it can have on mental health. Engaging in regular exercise can help alleviate anxiety, depression, and stress, all of which can be common experiences for transgender people. Exercise can also be an effective way to cope with dysphoria, as it provides a sense of control over one's body and can help individuals feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Physical changes associated with gender transition can also be supported and enhanced by exercise. Hormone therapy can cause muscle loss and weight gain, but strength training and cardio can help maintain muscle mass and reduce body fat. Exercise can also help with voice training, which is an important part of transition for many transgender individuals. Additionally, exercise can improve bone density, which is particularly important for transgender women who are taking estrogen, which can decrease bone density.

Furthermore, exercise can provide a sense of community and social support. Many transgender people face social isolation and lack of support, but exercise can be a way to connect with others who share similar experiences and goals. Transgender-inclusive fitness spaces like Mavericks Fitness are a safe and affirming environment for individuals to exercise and be themselves without fear of discrimination or harassment. Where else in Santa Cruz can you train shirtless without fear of judgment?

Exercise considerations for transgender people may vary based on an individual's goals, hormone therapy, and surgical status.

Here are some general considerations:

1. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy can affect the body's ability to build and maintain muscle mass and bone density. For transgender men, testosterone therapy can lead to increased muscle mass, while estrogen therapy for transgender women can lead to a decrease in muscle mass. I'm intimately familiar with hormone therapy and can help develop a workout plan that is appropriate for your goals and hormone levels. Another priority is giving your body the best ability to change without injury in the long-term.

2. Surgery: Transgender people who have undergone gender-affirming surgeries may have specific limitations and considerations for exercise, especially in the early stages of recovery. I'm knowledgeable about gender-affirming surgeries and can create a safe and effective exercise plan that takes into account any limitations or restrictions.

3. Dysphoria: Some transgender people may experience body dysphoria, which can make going to the gym or engaging in certain types of exercise challenging. It's essential to work with a someone who is respectful and understanding of your unique needs and challenges and can create a safe and supportive environment. This is one big reason Mavericks is a private gym.

4. Affirming environment: It's important to find a personal trainer who is supportive and affirming of your gender identity. This includes using your preferred name and pronouns, creating an inclusive workout environment, and avoiding making assumptions about your body or fitness level based on gender. Being trans myself, I understand the importance of having a safe space. The workouts are safe for all bodies and orientations.

5. Mental health considerations: Transgender people may face significant stressors related to their gender identity, including discrimination, social stigma, and lack of access to affirming healthcare. Exercise can be an effective tool to help manage stress and improve mental health, but it's important to work with a someone who is knowledgeable about the unique challenges that transgender people may face and can help support you holistically.

Being transgender isn't easy. Transitioning comes with its own set of challenges. By hiring a personal trainer like Rock who understands your struggle and has extensively studied the hormone effects and limitations, you will go further faster. Learn your new body and all of the amazing things it can do at Mavericks Fitness.