Strong Like Her: Haley Shapley on Redefining Women’s Fitness and Power

In this powerful Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah sits down with author, historian, and strength advocate Haley Shapley to unpack the forgotten stories and modern realities of women in fitness. Drawing from her acclaimed book Stronger Like Her, Haley takes us on a compelling journey through history, culture, and the pursuit of physical power, beyond aesthetics.

From the surprising role of the bicycle in women’s emancipation to trailblazers like Kathrine Switzer, Pudgy Stockton, and Serena Williams, Haley shines a spotlight on women who defied norms and redefined what it means to be strong.

They explore:

• Cultural myths that held women back from sport
• The evolution of strength training and CrossFit
• Representation, body image, and the media’s role
• Gender equity in sports—including the fight for equal pay
• Why inclusivity in fitness is more important than ever
• Haley’s personal journey, fitness philosophy, and writing process

Haley also shares practical insights on building strength, her challenges with upper body training, and the more profound message she hopes young girls take from her work: You are stronger than you think.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:41 The Bicycle & Women’s Independence
06:23 Kathrine Switzer’s Marathon Moment
13:02 Social Barriers & Fitness Media
22:04 The Power of Role Models in Sport
26:18 Behind Stronger Like Her
29:27 Haley’s Strength Training Journey
32:23 Gender Equity & The US Women’s Soccer Team
39:58 The Future of Women’s Fitness
42:38 Lightning Round
51:02 Final Thoughts

🎧 Watch and listen on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.

Episode Quote:
“The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” — Ayn Rand

📲 Connect with Haley at haleyshapley.com and follow her on Instagram @haleyshapley.

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