March 14th 2024.
Jaliyla Tillman is a trailblazing woman who is making a difference in the world of fitness. In 2022, she founded Mission Slimpossible, a 24-hour gym that is focused on empowering women. As a female-owned establishment, Tillman's gym provides a safe and welcoming space for women, specifically minority women, to embark on their fitness journey and build their confidence in the gym.
Recent studies have shown that Black or African American women are less physically active compared to white women. This is something that Tillman is determined to change. As an alumna of Hampton University, she personally experienced the effects of metabolic and hormonal changes due to birth control, resulting in significant weight gain in her mid-20s. But instead of becoming a statistic, Tillman dedicated herself to the gym and became a certified fitness instructor in 2020. Three years later, she opened the doors to the first Black female-owned fitness facility in the Glover Park section of Washington, D.C.
In honor of Women's History Month, Tillman sat down with Black Enterprise to share her insights on overcoming gym-timidation, building a fitness community, and celebrating small victories in the fitness journey.
Gym-timidation is a common feeling among women, with studies showing that almost half of women experience judgment and concerns about being perceived as inadequate when exercising. For Tillman, her journey into fitness entrepreneurship was born out of her own struggles and successes. She admits, "I wasn't always into fitness or going to the gym. It wasn't until my body changed after college that I realized the importance of being physically active."
Tillman's weight fluctuations led her to find solace in kickboxing, where she eventually lost 35 pounds. However, she still faced setbacks and struggled with accepting her body composition. "I was never considered obese, but I had to learn to appreciate my body and find the right fitness path for me," she shares. Unfortunately, these are common concerns for women, with the top reasons for avoiding workouts being feelings of intimidation, worries about looking unfit, and fear of judgment from others.
But Tillman's journey also led her to rediscover her passion for fitness and pursue certification as a trainer, which she completed in 2020 before opening her gym. Her goal is to create a welcoming environment where women feel comfortable and supported. "I make sure there's a friendly female face at the door when you come in," she says.
Mission Slimpossible's mission is to create a gym space that boosts spirits rather than triggers anxiety. "The fear of judgment from others is real and often causes hesitation," explains Tillman. "Our values revolve around the idea that exercise is about self-perception rather than external appearance. Regardless of your physique, fitness level, or size, you are welcome at Mission Slimpossible."
Beyond physical transformations, Tillman also emphasizes the importance of celebrating small victories and fostering a sense of community within the gym. "It's not just about weight loss anymore," she explains. "It's about celebrating every achievement, whether it's dropping a dress size or increasing water intake." Through initiatives like the Small Wins Wall, where members can share their accomplishments, Mission Slimpossible creates a supportive environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and encouraged.
Tillman also challenges the belief that Black or African American women will continue to be less physically active than their white counterparts. "We must embrace who we are and understand that physical activity is the highest form of self-care and an investment in ourselves," she asserts. Recognizing the barriers that Black or African American women face, Tillman emphasizes the intrinsic value of prioritizing wellness. "I want you to invest in yourself through great health and vitality," she emphasizes. Her approach to fitness reframes the narrative, highlighting the transformative impact of prioritizing health and well-being.
As we celebrate Women's History Month, Jaliyla Tillman's dedication to empowering women through fitness is a testament to the resilience and determination of female entrepreneurs. "Through Mission Slimpossible, I want to help women reshape their mindset around barriers to fitness and inspire them to embrace their inner strength and confidence, one small win at a time."
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