Malaysian Women Champion Fitness As Path To Success

KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 (Bernama) -- Navinder Kaur Thandal is the epitome of a woman who embraces her full potential. The certified personal trainer and health coach, who is now in her early 30s, took up arm wrestling several years ago to break gender stereotypes in the sport and has participated in several national-level championships.

Navinder is among the women who have broken barriers in competitive sports and corporate leadership with fitness, championing the transformative power of prioritising health and well-being.

“Fitness is not just about aesthetics – it is about empowerment, both mentally and physically. When I embarked on my fitness journey in 2016, strength training transformed me. It built my confidence, discipline and mental resilience,” she told Bernama, adding her message to all women in conjunction with International Women’s Day on March 8 is, “Fitness is a stepping stone to success in every aspect of life.”

Navinder said she often faced questions about why a woman should engage in strength training and arm wrestling. However, she believes there are no gender barriers in sports and that strength training can be life-changing.

“Many women fear lifting weights because they think it will make them bulky. But the truth is, building muscle makes you stronger, healthier and more confident. Strength training is essential for women, as it not only enhances physical health but also combats conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), hormonal imbalances, anxiety and depression.

“The real transformation happens when you allow your body to evolve. Women today are not only facing high-fat percentages but also muscle deficiency, which leads to long-term health issues. Strength training is the best way to preserve muscle mass, especially as we age. It is not just about fitness – it is about longevity and quality of life,” she said.

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Navinder, who runs a fitness centre with her partner in USJ 9, Subang Jaya, Selangor, added that what keeps her going is seeing her clients transform and gain confidence.

“Fitness is self-love, self-respect and self-discipline. When you prioritise your health, everything in your life improves.”

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Kalwinder Kaur, a senior corporate executive at a private company, echoes this sentiment, advocating consistency and balance in achieving health goals.

“Health and fitness are lifelong journeys. Setting realistic goals and maintaining a balanced diet are crucial,” she said, adding she prioritises fitness and integrates workouts into her routine even on the busiest days.

“Exercise fuels my energy, sharpens my focus and strengthens my ability to manage stress. The discipline I’ve gained from fitness translates into my corporate life, making me more resilient and confident,” she said.

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Former Mrs Malaysia World Priya Simmi, a conscious entrepreneur and advocate for women’s empowerment, urges women to prioritise self-care.

"My International Women’s Day message is simple: while we dedicate so much to others, it’s crucial to take time for ourselves.

“Self-love, self-respect and self-care are not selfish – they are essential. We cannot pour from an empty cup. When we prioritise our well-being, we can give our best to those around us. Let’s continue uplifting one another, but let’s also remember to uplift ourselves."

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As an aesthetic doctor, musician and entrepreneur, Dr Thyivya Kalaiselvan believes that pursuing passions alongside professional commitments is key to a fulfilling life.

“Music has been a part of my life since childhood and it fuels my creativity as an entrepreneur. However, societal expectations can be challenging as people sometimes don’t take you seriously when you have multiple interests.

“I overcame this by choosing a career that allows me the flexibility to pursue both my profession and my passion,” she said.

-- BERNAMA