Meet The Strength In Diversity Class Of 2023
Say hello to the future of fitness. Women's Health and Men's Health are proud to introduce the 2023 class of Strength in Diversity, an initiative that offers trainers from marginalized communities the chance to be mentored by elite fitness professionals and gain valuable knowledge from leaders across the wellness industry.
The fitness industry still has a long way to go when it comes to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Educational and financial obstacles prevent too many people from gaining the certifications required to become experts. Empty and enduring assumptions about who and what fitness is for leave many feeling like they don't belong. Systemic issues have consistently deprived trainers from marginalized communities of the tools they need to build a career in this industry, and that only makes it harder for folks in their respective communities to access the kinds of unique, exciting workout experiences that make fitness fun—and life-changing.
Women's Health and Men's Health want to change that—and so do these eight trainers. Selected by a committee of editors, trainers, and fitness and nutrition pros, they represent different communities and backgrounds from across the country. They're passionate about their day-to-day work and transforming the fitness industry from the inside out.
This summer, they'll be mentored by seasoned fitness pros and attend an exclusive series of weekly Zoom clinics that teach them about the business of training, content creation, and much more. They'll also have the opportunity to earn certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Precision Nutrition, and Functional Range Systems.
Since this program began in 2020, Women's Health and Men's Health have collectively worked with 40 trainers from across the U.S. They've programmed workout series on the All / Out Studio app, shared their stories and knowledge on podcasts and television spots, and been featured in our magazines' print, digital, and social content. The eight trainers below will be joining them soon, so keep an eye out for them on our channels.
Making space for more diverse, inclusive communities in fitness and wellness has been at the beating heart of everything we do at Women's Health and Men's Health. We're so excited to introduce you to eight of the trainers we believe represent an exciting future for the industry—and deserve to be the next big thing.
Nellie Barnett, 30
Based in: Norwalk, Connecticut
Instagram: @nellbellsfitness
Nellie, a certified trainer and glute specialist, has an appreciation for life that stems from her childhood growing up in both Jamaica and the United States. Her positive and authentic training style embraces a holistic approach to fitness that emphasizes health, happiness, and long-term lifestyle changes—no quick fixes here. "I believe that in order to be your best self, your body, mind, and soul must be in alignment," she says. "That starts with what you eat, how you train and how you speak to yourself."
Ari Cobb, 27
Based in: Houston, Texas
Instagram: @thearicobb
Ari is pursuing a kinesiology degree while competing as a mixed martial arts fighter. She dreams of combining her two passions—fitness and fighting—to host large group kickboxing classes. She aims to prove that fitness is not one size fits all and that women can succeed by being authentically themselves, especially competing in the male-dominated MMA world. "Exercise has always been a way of life for me, and I live by it," she says. "I truly believe that a good workout can change your whole life."
Ashley Nicole Davis, 39
Based in: Dallas, Texas
Instagram: @ashnic_rawarriorfitness
When Ashley Nicole was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, she realized that the trainers she worked with didn't understand her limitations. "It became frustrating when I was asked to perform certain exercises, but due to joint damage and discomfort, I just simply couldn't do it," she says. "That's when I decided to get certified and become who I needed." In 2020, she founded RA Warrior Fitness with the mission to empower autoimmune women to improve their quality of life through faith, food and fitness. Fun fact: She's also a pro bodybuilder!
D.J. Gibson, 32
Based in: New York City
Instagram: @djgibson.fit
As a fitness coach, D.J. utilizes a combination of kettlebells, calisthenics, gymnastics, and mobility strength training to promote freedom and exploration of one’s physical abilities. His workouts highlight the necessary areas of improvement that allow for pain-free movement, body awareness, and self-confidence in clients of all ages. "I want to help people feel like they're in control of their health," he says. "Fitness is often masked by a facade of vanity, but it's more than that—it's the single best option to improve longevity."
Thaddeus Kornegay, 32
Based in: Orlando, Florida
Instagram: @thadisphat
When "T.K." started his fitness journey seven years ago and began seeing changes in himself, he was inspired to share that with others. He's now a group fitness specialist who has taught outdoor classes across his hometown of Orlando, and works with local nonprofits. He also competed on season 10 of American Ninja Warrior! "I’m thankful and blessed to experience this changing industry because it has made me strong in all aspects of life," he says. "Giving up is not an option. Whenever I’m tasked with an obstacle, I dig deep and see it through."
David Pegram, 35
Based in: New York City
Instagram: @dave.getsfit
Previously a Broadway actor, David embarked on a personal fitness journey after sustaining two foot fractures during a run of War Horse. His recovery sparked a passion for understanding the human body's power, which led him to switch careers during the pandemic. He started an online coaching business called The Power Up, teaches fully booked classes at NYC's GRIT BXNG, and teaches Strength, Power and Boxing on the Obé Fitness platform. "My ultimate goal is to surprise clients with their own incredible strength," he says.
Claudette Sariya, 30
Based in: New York City
Instagram: @yearofclaude
Claudette is a coach at NYC's West Village Athletic, a private gym that specializes in squad training and building community. As a certified trainer and group fitness instructor, she takes pride in guiding members through proper form and technique to get the most effective workout without injury. "A healthy lifestyle can be achieved by everyone, but the journey can feel intimidating when you don't see anyone you relate to," she says. "I want to be the bridge—that high-five and smile—that others can look to as they begin their fitness journey."
Joe Seeley, 39
Based in: New York City
Instagram: @joeprofitnessworldwide
Originally from Harlem, Joe has been a fitness trainer for 15 years, working with clients in New York, Los Angeles, and virtually. His breadth of experience makes him equally comfortable training young adults, C-suite executives, stay-at-home-moms, athletes, and retirees. "More people should value the importance of taking workout advice from someone professionally certified," says Joe, who holds nine different certifications. "This will not only allow the trainer to feel more confident in their craft, but also trainees will experience sessions that are truly personalized to their goals and fitness level."
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