Prioritizing Your Own Strength Journey with Dr. Marcia

Strength isn't just about lifting weights; it's about overcoming obstacles, both physical and mental. In a compelling episode of the Heart and Bones podcast, Brea Johnson sits down with Dr. Marcia to explore the deeper dimensions of strength training and resilience. Dr. Marcia, a physical therapist, powerlifter, and advocate for inclusive fitness, shares her journey and insights, offering invaluable lessons for everyone.

Embracing Strength in All Forms

Strength training can mean different things for different people. For Dr. Marcia, it began with an inspiring moment. "I saw someone in a larger body talking about weight lifting, and she was saying how strong she was. I thought, maybe I can get muscles too," she recalls. This realization led her to explore powerlifting and later, Strongman competitions, adapting her training to fit her body's changing needs.

Which is why Dr. Marcia stresses the importance of defining strength on your own terms. "Strength training can mean anything—calisthenics, isometrics, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises. It's about what challenges you and helps you grow," she explains.

Navigating Chronic Illness and Fitness

Living with a chronic illness, Dr. Marcia's approach to fitness is deeply personal and adaptive. "Everything comes at a cost—mental or physical. I could plan everything correctly, and it still might not go well," she shares. This awareness helps her balance her energy and activities, ensuring she can continue doing what she loves without overwhelming her body.

Her experiences as a "spoonie" (a term used to describe living with chronic illness) have taught her to listen to her body and adjust her routines accordingly. "Some days I wake up with 50 spoons instead of 100. It's about understanding what you can handle each day and making peace with that," she says.

Challenging Societal Narratives

Dr. Marcia talks about the societal pressures and misconceptions around fitness and body image. "Fitness is still linked to aesthetics. Some people avoid strength training because they fear looking bulky," she says. She supports shifting the focus from appearance to capability and resilience.

"Nobody can tell you how you're going to look. Everyone's body is different. Strength training should be about what you gain from it—confidence, capability, and overall well-being," she asserts.

Dr. Marcia's conversation with Brea Johnson is a wonderful reminder that strength goes beyond physical capabilities. It's about resilience, adaptability, and challenging societal norms. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, her insights offer valuable lessons on embracing your unique path to strength and well-being. Lift heavy things, listen to your body, and trust your journey—because true strength is about so much more than just muscles.