Gayety

Tag: Trangender

  • Get Fit and Feel Fierce With These LGBTQ+ Fitness Coaches Who Are Redefining Strength

    Get Fit and Feel Fierce With These LGBTQ+ Fitness Coaches Who Are Redefining Strength

    Pride Month is here, and while we love a good glittery parade or dance-all-night-afterparty, there’s something extra powerful about queering the gym, too. For years, fitness spaces have been dominated by toxic bro-culture and rigid beauty standards, but these LGBTQ+ fitness influencers are turning that narrative on its (very toned) head.

    From TikTok phenoms to certified coaches with thriving wellness communities, these creators are helping queer folks across the spectrum build muscle, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to switch up your routine, these trainers are ready to help you sweat with pride, and maybe throw in a thirst trap or two.

    Sam Leicht: Lightning in a Dumbbell

    Let’s kick things off with a flash of brilliance, literally. Sam Leicht (pronounced “like lightning,” and yes, he’ll remind you of that) is a New York-based actor, certified health coach, and founder of Pridefit, a fitness app built for and by the LGBTQIA+ community.

    Since 2020, Sam has helped thousands of queer folks worldwide feel confident in their bodies and safe in their fitness journeys. His workouts — strength and HIIT-based — are tough, affirming, and full of sparkle.

    With credentials that include NASM CPT, CrossFit Level 2, and Strongman certifications, Sam is more than qualified to guide you through your reps. But what really makes him stand out? His mission: making gyms less intimidating and more inclusive for queer bodies of all kinds.

    Follow him on Instagram, YouTube & TikTok.

    Colton Ranson: The Consistency King

    With over 88,000 Instagram followers, Colton Ranson (aka @colt.fitness) brings equal parts strength and encouragement to your feed. A fitness coach since 2017, Colton focuses on giving people the tools they need to transform their bodies and minds.

    His content is clean, clear, and confidence-boosting, no gimmicks, just real talk and real gains. Think of him as your gym BFF with a perfect smile and a killer protein shake recipe.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Colton Ranson (@colt.fitness)

    Pauline Nordin: Discipline Meets Empowerment

    If you’ve ever said “I need someone to just tell me what to do,” Pauline Nordin is your gal. Her brand, Fighter Diet, has empowered over 150,000 people with practical nutrition plans and tough-love workouts.

    With over 128,000 Instagram followers, Pauline mixes high-intensity regimens with the kind of real-world advice that gets results. No fluff, no fakery, just one very sculpted truth-teller.

    Catch her workouts and motivation on Instagram and YouTube.

    Sam Cushing: Strength Meets Serenity

    Need a little Chopin with your shoulder press? Sam Cushing is the dreamy pianist-slash-fitness-guru you didn’t know you needed. With over 888,000 Instagram followers, Sam is known for combining strength training with self-love, mindfulness, and a little musical flair.

    Whether you’re trying to build muscle or just remember to breathe, Sam makes at-home workouts feel cozy, creative, and totally queer.

    Find him flexing and composing on Instagram and YouTube.

    @sam.cushing

    Definitely not mad about this pool at my new place in LA #Poolside #CircaLA

    ♬ Summer Days – Martin Garrix / Macklemore / Patrick Stump

    Madam Physique: Muscle Beach Maven

    Madam Physique went viral for more than her workouts. Her brutally honest TikToks chronicling life with PTSD and housing insecurity struck a chord with thousands, and now, she’s using that platform to lift up others, one dumbbell (or gym fit) at a time.

    She’s also made history as the first trans woman to claim Muscle Beach in Venice, California. That’s not just badass, that’s legendary!

    @themadamphysique

    Want to feel stronger? Use @WallFit Even I use it to help with toning! #StartwithWallFit #homeworkout #pilates #wallfit #beginner #weightloss

    ♬ Summer – Croquet Club

    DJ Rock: Pilates With Punchlines

    Serving strength and sass in equal measure, DJ Rock, aka The Trans Fitness Bitch, is a Brooklyn-based pilates instructor with a wicked sense of humor. As a trainer at Out Box, a trans-owned boxing gym, she blends inclusive movement with sharp commentary, and keeps it light without watering anything down.

    Her approach to fitness? Joyful, judgment-free, and gloriously queer.

     

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    A post shared by DJ Rock (@thetransfitnessbitch)

    Ilya Parker: The Industry Disruptor

    Tired of toxic fitness culture? Ilya Parker was too. That’s why they created Decolonizing Fitness, a platform and movement that centers inclusive, trauma-informed wellness practices.

    They don’t just call out the industry, they’re actively reshaping it with educational resources, affirming workouts, and a growing directory of queer-friendly movement pros.

    They’re building a better fitness world, and you’re invited.

    Landyn Pan: Bye, Bro-Culture

    Landyn Pan wants you to build muscle and confidence without toxic masculinity, crash diets, or gymtimidation. Their Instagram says it all: “Helping LGBTQ+ ppl build strength, muscle and confidence without toxic bro-culture.” Amen!

    Their content is full of technique tips, client transformations, and practical nutrition guidance, all geared toward queer and trans clients who want results without the side of shame.

    Flex Your Pride

    These creators are showing that strength is about so much more than aesthetics, it’s about resilience, joy, and the freedom to move your body in ways that feel good for you. This Pride, consider swapping the glitter for a barbell (or both… we’re not judging).

    Whether you’re building muscle, starting fresh, or just need a little fitspo that actually sees you, these queer fitness influencers are here to coach, support, and celebrate every part of your journey.

  • Emilia Pérez Star Karla Sofía Gascón Apologizes for Past Controversy Amid Oscars Scandal

    Emilia Pérez Star Karla Sofía Gascón Apologizes for Past Controversy Amid Oscars Scandal

    Karla Sofía Gascón, the star of Emilia Pérez, has issued a heartfelt apology following a wave of controversy during this year’s Oscars season. The actress, who made history as the first openly transgender actor nominated for an Academy Award, found herself at the center of a scandal after past social media posts resurfaced. The posts, which included hateful and bigoted remarks, sparked widespread backlash from the public.

    In an exclusive statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Gascón expressed regret over her past actions, discussing the emotional toll the situation has taken on her in recent months. The actress acknowledged the harm caused by her past words and emphasized her commitment to self-improvement and accountability.

    “I’ve learned a lot over these past few months,” Gascón said. “I want to take this opportunity to listen, learn, and admit my mistakes, while also seeking forgiveness for the pain I’ve caused others.”

    The controversy surrounding Gascón intensified after journalist Sarah Hagi uncovered a series of posts from Gascón’s time on X (formerly Twitter). The posts, written years ago, included derogatory statements targeting Islam and Muslims, as well as comments about immigrants, the Oscars, and the George Floyd protests.

    The actress, who had enjoyed a period of success following her Oscar nomination, became the target of public scrutiny. Despite facing intense criticism, Gascón has since acknowledged the damage her comments caused and expressed a desire to make amends.

    In her statement, Gascón reflected on her journey and the emotional impact of the controversy. She explained that she had built “a shield” around herself to cope with past struggles, but that this emotional barrier ultimately created additional harm to those around her.

    “Shields can be cold and hard on the outside, and they can also hurt those who are close to you,” she said. “While I have been the target of harmful words, I also recognize that I have said hurtful things in the past. These words came from a place of fear, ignorance, and pain, and I deeply regret them.”

    Gascón emphasized that there are no excuses for her past behavior and stressed that she was not attempting to justify her actions. “I apologize to anyone I have offended, and I ask for their forgiveness,” she stated. “I am committed to doing better, learning from my mistakes, and ensuring that I do not repeat them in the future.”

    Mental health struggles have also played a significant role in Gascón’s personal journey. She revealed that, amid the scandal, she has faced “dark moments” in her life. In her statement, the actress admitted that at times the emotional weight of the situation was so overwhelming that she considered “the unthinkable.”

    “There were moments during this painful experience when the pain became so intense that I considered giving up,” Gascón confessed. “I harbored darker thoughts than I had during other difficult times in my life. But through it all, I have managed to hold on to a small piece of sanity, and that has helped me see the light at the end of this tunnel of hate.”

     

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    A post shared by Karla Sofía Gascón (@karsiagascon)

    Despite the emotional challenges, Gascón is determined to learn from her past and emerge stronger. “I understand now that I must be better and do better,” she said. “It’s important to me to correct the mistakes I’ve made and move forward with a more open heart, free from the darkness that has consumed me.”

    The actress has previously issued public apologies, but some of her earlier statements were met with criticism for being defensive. In an interview with CNN en Español, Gascón stated: “I have not committed any crime, nor have I harmed anyone. I am not racist, nor am I anything that people are trying to make others believe about me.” However, in her latest statement, she took a more reflective approach, acknowledging her past mistakes without deflecting blame.

    Gascón’s journey to redemption comes at a time when the spotlight is on her as one of the most high-profile LGBTQ+ figures in Hollywood. As a trailblazer in her industry, she has a significant platform to inspire change and dialogue around issues of representation, acceptance, and self-reflection.

    In addition to her Hollywood career, Gascón has been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, particularly for transgender rights. Her Oscar nomination marked a major milestone for transgender visibility in the entertainment industry, and many fans and supporters rallied behind her during the controversy.

    Despite the turbulence she has faced, Gascón remains determined to use her experiences as an opportunity for growth. “I am deeply grateful for the kindness and understanding I’ve received from so many people during this difficult time,” she said. “As I continue to learn and evolve, I promise to be a better person, not just for myself, but for all those I’ve hurt along the way.”

    In a post on her Instagram, Gascón shared the full statement with her followers, providing a summary in Spanish to reach a broader audience. She also included a message of hope, encouraging others to embrace forgiveness and the power of personal growth.

    As Gascón moves forward, it remains to be seen how her career and public image will evolve. However, her commitment to change and her willingness to confront her past head-on have garnered support from many, while others continue to call for accountability in the public eye.

  • Two Pennsylvania School Districts and Parents Sue Over Expanded Anti-Discrimination Protections for LGBTQ+ Individuals

    Two Pennsylvania School Districts and Parents Sue Over Expanded Anti-Discrimination Protections for LGBTQ+ Individuals

    Two public school districts and several parents are challenging Pennsylvania’s expanded anti-discrimination regulations, which offer protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, in a lawsuit filed Thursday. The plaintiffs argue that the two-year-old regulation oversteps the intent of lawmakers and is therefore illegal.

    The lawsuit, submitted to Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court, is part of a broader, national conversation about the rights of transgender individuals, especially in relation to high school sports and transgender athletes competing in women’s competitions. The plaintiffs seek to overturn a state regulation that has broadened the scope of sex discrimination to include sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, which they argue was never authorized by the state legislature.

    If successful, the lawsuit would strip the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) of its ability to investigate discrimination claims related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Additionally, the plaintiffs hope the ruling would restrict transgender students from competing in women’s high school sports within the state.

    School Districts and State Lawmakers Among Plaintiffs

    The lawsuit was filed by two school districts from western Pennsylvania — South Side Area School District and Knoch School District — along with two Republican state lawmakers, Reps. Aaron Bernstine and Barbara Gleim. Three parents and seven students are also named as plaintiffs in the case.

    The defendants include Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission, an agency responsible for investigating discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations based on race, sex, religion, age, and disability.

    On Friday, Shapiro’s office declined to comment on the lawsuit, and the PHRC did not immediately respond to requests for a statement.

    Legal Basis of the Lawsuit

    The central issue in the lawsuit revolves around the expanded definition of sex discrimination in Pennsylvania’s anti-discrimination law, which was implemented by the Human Relations Commission in 2023. The plaintiffs contend that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has historically interpreted “sex” as either male or female, and they assert that the legislature did not authorize the commission to expand this definition through regulation.

    The plaintiffs argue that this regulatory change encroaches on the legislature’s constitutional authority to make laws. They assert that the state constitution requires lawmakers, rather than state agencies, to decide on such fundamental definitions of discrimination.

    In contrast, the PHRC justifies its expanded interpretation by citing the Pennsylvania courts’ practice of aligning state anti-discrimination laws with federal guidelines. The commission has authority to handle discrimination complaints and can negotiate settlements, impose civil penalties, or award damages, including back pay.

    Background on Pennsylvania’s LGBTQ+ Anti-Discrimination Efforts

    The regulation in question was passed in late 2022 and took effect in early 2023. This change came after years of debate in the state legislature, where Democratic lawmakers had repeatedly attempted to pass legislation that would explicitly include sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression under the scope of discrimination protections. However, these efforts were consistently blocked by Republican lawmakers.

    The regulation came about through a process involving a regulatory gatekeeper agency, which approved the new rule after receiving input from various stakeholders. The regulation’s approval marked a significant victory for LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, who had long pushed for these additional protections, especially for transgender individuals who often face discrimination in housing, employment, and public spaces.

    Impact of the Lawsuit

    The lawsuit’s potential impact is significant, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community in Pennsylvania. If the courts side with the plaintiffs, it could severely limit the state’s ability to protect individuals from discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. This could also set a precedent for other states looking to roll back similar protections.

    The issue of transgender athletes competing in women’s sports is a hotly debated topic in Pennsylvania and across the U.S., with opponents arguing that transgender women have an unfair advantage over cisgender women in some sports. Supporters of transgender rights, however, argue that inclusive policies are necessary to ensure that transgender individuals have equal opportunities and protections.

    Next Steps

    The lawsuit is still in its early stages, and it remains to be seen how the courts will address the broader implications of expanding anti-discrimination laws. Legal experts predict that the case could be one of several in the coming years challenging LGBTQ+ protections across the country, particularly as conservative lawmakers continue to push back against policies they view as overreaching.

    For now, both sides of the debate continue to press forward, with LGBTQ+ advocates watching closely as Pennsylvania’s legal system examines the scope and future of anti-discrimination protections in the state.

    The case is expected to proceed over the coming months, and its outcome could have broader implications for how LGBTQ+ individuals are protected under state laws, particularly regarding discrimination and participation in high school sports.