In our month-to-month profile collection Meet the Trailblazers, Fitbit is searching for to amplify variety on the planet of wellness and health by that includes the voices of POC trailblazers on the helm of those industries—industries which have discredited voices like theirs for too lengthy. 

This month, we’re highlighting the extraordinary work of Roslyn Mays, aka Roz the Diva. Roz is a nontraditional pole athlete, NASM-certified coach and featured Fitbit Premium coach, and a body-positive influencer. We’re excited to share the inspiring dialog we had together with her. 

Right now, Roslyn “Roz the Diva” Mays is thought for her prowess on the pole. Not solely is she an acclaimed pole athlete, however the Brooklyn-based powerhouse additionally created Harmful Curves, the first-ever nationwide competitors to place a highlight on plus dimension pole athletes. Her health profession bought its begin when she turned enamored with group health courses. Roz discovered her option to pole health specifically at her common health club in 2007—although on the time, she was solely targeted on weight reduction and the health club as a car for doing tons of cardio, which she calls “a traditional rookie mistake.” 

“After I noticed pole health was on the category schedule,” Roz shares, “I figured it was one thing new to strive. I vividly bear in mind my top notch—I used to be actually weak, confused, and positively not assured. Regardless of my failure that evening, I’d by no means had a greater time failing at something athletic and completely fell in love.”  

Hold studying to dive into our Q&A with Roz and discover out extra about her refreshingly trustworthy tackle, nicely, nearly every part—together with the significance of illustration within the health world. 

FITBIT: You’ve made waves in your profession as somebody who will not be solely an unbelievable athlete and skilled coach your self, however with a refreshingly inclusive method to coaching various physique sorts and nontraditional athletes. Superb! Are you able to share extra about what drew you to the unbelievable work you do? 

ROZ: My health profession was born from my love affair with group health courses.  I thrive on the power of different health club rats and attempt to make an atmosphere the place others can as nicely.  I used to be additionally enthusiastic about educating as a result of I knew my 90’s and 2000’s playlist could be epic, and the individuals need to groove as they sweat.

What’s your favourite factor about doing what you do?

ROZ: Educating pole is my favourite a part of the game.  What began as a category on the health club developed right into a critical pastime, then right into a facet hustle, and at last, right into a wholesome enterprise. Not solely can my solopreneurship financially help my life in NYC, however I get to assist common individuals really feel like glittery superheroes after they nail a cool new trick. Over the past twelve years, I’ve coached athletes in 33 states and eight international locations.

Why, in your view, is illustration so essential?  

ROZ: Illustration issues as a result of you’ll be able to’t be what you’ll be able to’t see. I typically surprise how my vanity would have developed if, throughout my teenage years, I had seen feminine athletes that regarded like me. I by no means got down to be a nontraditional athlete; nevertheless, as a plus dimension lady, it’s virtually unimaginable to keep away from that title. I’m pleased to make use of that title to assist others really feel much less lonely.

With a lot in your plate, how do you prioritize self-care? 

ROZ: I don’t. I’m typically the final particular person whose wants I think about. I need assistance to vary that.

Is there a wellness “pattern” you’re glad to see changing into extra popularized?  

ROZ: PSYCHOTHERAPY, palms down! I’m an enormous advocate for psychological well being care and thrilled to see it changing into much less stigmatized, particularly for BIPOC individuals. My therapist of 15+ years has gotten me by means of some significantly darkish instances in my 20’s.

And one thing you’re able to put behind you? 

ROZ: I’m prepared for my physique weight to not dictate my worth as an individual. Regardless of how assured I seem, I’ve fairly a couple of size-related demons to work by means of. Addressing this concern continues to be a protracted and exhausting course of, however essential to expertise.

You’re launching extra content material on Fitbit Premium quickly—thrilling! Are you able to share what your favourite type of content material is to shoot and why?  

ROZ: I really like the movies once I transfer at a good, regular tempo, as a result of I do know others can simply comply with alongside. I would like my content material to be as accessible to train virgins as doable.

Anything you’d wish to share? 

ROZ: Hello Beyonce. Lemme know if you’re prepared for me to hitch you on tour. I’ve a pole, a passport, and no youngsters.