These Heartwarming Stories Prove Teammates Come In Many Forms—And Can Change Your Life
Teammates aren’t just on the field—they’re the folks at home, in the gym, and even on the internet who inspire us to be our best selves. We asked trainers and mentors from the Women’s Health and Men’s Health's Strength in Diversity initiative, a selection of up-and-coming trainers representing marginalized communities, to shout out who’s on their starting roster.
Strength in Diversity, which you can apply for until April 15, offers the eight selected trainers the chance to work with a cadre of elite fitness professionals, gain next-level certifications, and participate in weekly Zoom clinics that teach video and social media content creation, the importance of nutrition in fitness, and more. If you think this program could benefit you, read more about it and apply here.
Ashley Nicole, 40
Instagram: @ashnic_rawarriorfitness
"As a bodybuilder with rheumatoid arthritis, I face unique challenges. My coach, Felicia ‘Iron Divas’ Cox, not only recognizes my limitations but also fearlessly propels me beyond my comfort zone. During moments of mental exhaustion, Coach Fe’s support and encouragement keeps me on track and focused. Witnessing her presence in the crowd at every competition, cheering me on with boundless enthusiasm, fills my heart with joy. With Coach Fe's guidance, I eagerly anticipate more victories, both on the stage and in life."
Tatiana Lampa, 32
Instagram: @tatianalampa
"My husband, Mike, was diagnosed with kidney failure a month after we got engaged. More than a year later, we’re still in search of a donor to save his life. We made a promise to never go to bed angry or sad—instead, we share a silly video or a funny moment from our day and laugh together before we sleep. We refuse to let our struggles define who we are. Together, we can conquer anything."
Claudette Sariya, 30
Instagram: @yearofclaude
"Donell Carter, who I worked with at Life Time, gave me my first chance in the fitness industry. I'll never forget the moment he called me and asked me if I knew what job I had applied for, because I submitted a public relations and marketing resume. After explaining my passion for fitness, he took me in and made me part of the team. I studied for my personal trainer certification on shift and learned the ins and outs of building a business. He showed me what the fitness world could offer me—and helped me realize what I had to offer, too."
Almoni Ellis, 26
Instagram: @runningsoles_
"My powerlifting coach, Samantha Calhoun, sets the standard for leadership, wisdom, and tenacity. When I first joined the Sam Strong powerlifting team, I didn’t have the best equipment. Sam gave me a pair of her knee sleeves and wrist wraps, which helped catapult my lifting technique. It was my first time experiencing her selflessness and empathy, and it surely wasn’t my last. Since then, she has been there to offer life advice, present career-changing opportunities, and help me in any way she can."
Brittany Spencer, 35
Instagram: @bounced.back.britt
"I call Maya Evans my ‘swolemate.’ She came into my life during a tough season; I was confused and borderline depressed. But from our first interaction, I knew it was a safe space. We make mental health check-ins a priority, and our conversations always leave me feeling empowered and encouraged. Maya constantly reminds me not to settle or allow my fears to keep me from dreaming big."
Patricia Greaves, 56
Instagram: @pattifitnfab
"My husband, Tyrone, is the cornerstone of my life. After having our three daughters, I decided to do something crazy and enter a bodybuilding competition at age 43. Ty was right there encouraging and supporting me through a difficult training process—and he cheered me on when I finally won my pro card at the age of 51! Together, we’ve raised a beautiful family that prioritizes health and wellbeing."
Nellie Barnett, 30
Instagram: @nellbellsfitness
"I remember walking into Kailey Rowan’s office at her gym, North County Fitness & Performance in Vista, California, to discuss my fitness goals. Kailey fostered an inclusive community at NCFP where members were, and still are, excited to go to the gym! I fell in love with fitness and now have my own online coaching business. Kailey taught me that teamwork brings out the absolute best in you."
Ari Cobb, 27
Instagram: @thearicobb
“When I was getting ready for my amateur MMA title fight, I had a lot of anxiety and self-doubt. I started doing coaching calls with fellow fighter Brittney Cloudy, who helped me find the root cause of these feelings so I could better control and overcome them. I felt validated, understood, and completely at peace, no matter the outcome of the fight. I see through her how beautiful this sport is and can be.”
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