My mother once said that the concept of wellness to a black woman is “radical.” Wellness is the state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal. With further discussion, I understood that she meant simply moving through the world is effort enough. To pursue and prioritize yourself almost seems unrealistic. To say I was utterly disheartened would be an understatement, but I understood. Making your overall wellness is hard to do in a city and culture that “never sleeps.” But as a black woman, it is tough to do when trying to be successful and disrupt the false ideas society has about you as a human being.
That being said, some places make the focus of wellness easier and seemingly more accessible.
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When I stumbled into MTHD by Oscar, it was simply another attempt to prioritize wellness. To be a champion of my physical health. “The gym instructors have partnered with healthcare professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to fitness.” I quickly learned that this was a fantastic black-owned studio that provided a luxury experience. The studio was committed to delivering the best workout rooted in the health of each individual who walked through the door.
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The facility has a wide range of equipment, a shower, a locker room, and a boxing area. I’ve taken the Gauntlet, a station-based class rotating between cardio and strength training, and the Lower Body Burn class, which focuses on strengthening your lower half. Overall, it was the most enjoyable pain I’ve experienced. I could feel my muscles being pushed in ways they hadn’t before, yet I felt safe and guided by the instructor. Now, what makes an impact on me in terms of studios is culture. MTHD has a community of diverse, kind, and encouraging members. From the coaches to the people, attending this gym is something to cherish.
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Shoutout to Oscar Colon, the founder born and raised in Brooklyn, for creating a dazzling environment where everyone can prioritize their physical and mental well-being. MTHD by Oscar is not only black-owned but is genuinely a pioneer in the fitness space in New York. During this Black History Month, World Bride Magazine will continue to highlight black-owned businesses that continue to show us the way and raise the bar to achieve overall wellness.