When I was 32, my friend (who happens to be a Functional GP) gave me unforgettable advice.

I was starting to get interested in hormone health and how it relates to training women in the gym, and I had been running myself ragged, trying to make sense of it all.

But, like most beginners, I made many mistakes: researching the wrong things, relying on high-intensity training and not considering a client's lifestyle habits.

Until one day, she said to me:

"Nardia, women aren't small men with breasts".

"Stop approaching female fitness in the same way that the fitness industry does. Think differently and holistically when working with women."

That day, my whole perspective changed.

Today, it seems so obvious, but back then, that conversation caused a pattern disrupt in my thinking which allowed me to look at female fitness through a different lens.

Now, when working with clients or teaching Fit Pros how to work with women, I take a 360-degree approach. I consider what stage of life they're in and the hormonal changes at those different stages. I examine their lifestyle habits and consider how much lifestyle load they are under (as this influences results). Lastly, I write better, more effective programs with the information gained above.

My philosophy shifted from 'smash them as hard as possible' to 'how can I bring out the best in them?'.

There's fewer black-and-white approaches and more nuance.

Less of a "this is how it is done" attitude to a "how can I make this doable for you?" one.

I moved from being an authoritative Personal trainer to a collaborative coach.

Changing my perspective changed everything, and I am forever grateful for that conversation.