Self Love isn’t just bubble baths - it’s lifting heavy sh*t

Let’s get one thing straight: self-love isn’t about scented candles, Instagram quotes, or pretending everything’s fine when it’s not. It’s about looking in the mirror and saying, “You’re strong as hell, and you deserve to feel it.”

At Mountain High Fitness, we’re not here for toxic positivity or airbrushed perfection. We’re here for barbells, high-fives, and reminding you that your body is already enough.

Why Self-Love and Strength Training Go Hand in Hand
You’ve probably heard the phrase “strong is the new skinny.” But here’s the thing: strength isn’t about aesthetics. It’s about what your body can *do*.

When you lift weights, you’re not just building muscle—you’re building confidence. Every rep is a reminder that you’re capable of more than you think. And that’s where self-love comes in.

The Science:
A 2020 study in ‘Body Image’ found that strength training improves body appreciation more than cardio alone. Why? Because lifting teaches you to focus on your body’s abilities, not just its appearance.

Another study in ‘Psychology of Sport and Exercise’ showed that women who lifted weights reported higher levels of self-esteem and body satisfaction. And guess what? The same applies to men, non-binary folks, and everyone in between.

The Problem with ‘Self-Love’ as a Marketing Gimmick
Here’s the thing: self-love has been hijacked by brands trying to sell you stuff. They want you to believe that buying their overpriced candles or detox teas will magically make you love yourself.

Spoiler alert: it won’t.

Real self-love isn’t about spending money—it’s about investing in yourself. And one of the best investments you can make is strength training.

How to Start Your Self-Love Journey in the Gym
1. Pick One Exercise That Makes You Feel Powerful
It doesn’t have to be a deadlift or a bench press. Start with something simple, like a push-up or a goblet squat. The goal isn’t to impress anyone—it’s to prove to yourself that you’re stronger than you think.

2. Ditch the Mirror (For Now)
Mirrors are great for checking your form, but they’re also a breeding ground for self-criticism. Try turning away from the mirror and focusing on how the movement *feels*.

3. Tell Your Inner Critic to F*** Off
We all have that voice in our heads that says, “You’re not strong enough” or “You don’t belong here.” Next time it pops up, tell it to shut the hell up. You’re here, you’re trying, and that’s enough.

Why This Matters
Self-love isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. Some days, you’ll feel like a badass. Other days, you’ll feel like a sack of potatoes. And that’s okay.

The point is to show up, even when it’s hard. Because every time you do, you’re reminding yourself that you’re worth the effort.

Your Action Step
Next time you’re in the gym, try one exercise that makes you feel powerful. And if you catch yourself nitpicking your reflection, take a deep breath and say, “You’re doing your best, and that’s enough.”