Nia Shanks is the ultimate Superfit Hero. Nia is the powerhouse behind the Lift Like a Girl website and podcast. With Lift Like a Girl, Nia shares down to earth information and strength training programs for women. In her own words:
"I’m here to help you filter through the BS and show you the Sane and Simple way to strength train and eat to build a better body. No overblown promises or any of that mess — just information you can use today to build the body you want."
Lift Like a Girl is so much more than a workout plan. Nia's podcast features expert guests covering a wide range of topics including fitness, nutrition, and exposés on the lies and corruption of the mainstream fitness industry. You will finish each episode feeling enlightened, entertained, sometimes a little pissed off, and always totally empowered.
Nia authored what has become our favorite article about women's fitness to date. If you haven't caught this in one of our many social media posts about it, do yourself a favor and read this: 13 Ways Women Can be MORE, Not Less.
Nia graciously agreed to tell us a little more about her story and why she does what she does.
What motivates you to do what you do with Lift Like a Girl?
It's my passion to help women become the strongest, most awesome version of themselves to they can live life to the fullest. Health and fitness is a tool to build a body that serves you so you can do the things you want. It should be empowering and fun!
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I'm proud and grateful for so many things, but fitness-related it would be received messages and emails from women every day saying they benefit from my website and podcast. That is how I measure success - making a positive impact on other women's lives (or just entertaining them!).
What does a typical week in fitness look like for you?
Right now my workouts are mostly bodyweight exercises with a little dumbbell work sprinkled in. I generally strength train three days per week and mountain bike, kayak, or road bike at least once per week as well. I enjoy being active outdoors and try to do that as much as possible
What is your biggest challenge/goal currently?
I'm currently exploring other ways to be physically active in a fun way. As much as I enjoy strength training and getting stronger, lately I've been trying to explore or activities, and that's actually why I just got into road biking. I'm always up for trying something new!
Finally, what is your superpower?
That's a tough one! I would say openness. I'm willing to try other things and listen to other people's perspectives and points of view while also sharing my own. This has allowed me to make strong connections with others while also using my personal experiences to help other women as well.