How I Went From Struggling With My Health To Building A Fitness Empire

Sometimes, life challenges us in ways we never see coming. These struggles have the power to redefine us, pushing us toward something greater. My journey has been one of resilience, transformation, and finding purpose in the midst of hardship. In 2020, I was diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition that many women live with, often in silence. It brought significant changes to my life, encouraging me to slow down and reflect.

Coping with the physical discomfort and emotional challenges of a chronic illness led me to rethink how I approached my health and well-being. Amid these changes, fitness became a source of solace and renewal. Showing up each day, even when it felt hard, became an act of resilience. While I couldn’t always control the condition itself, I discovered that I could shape how I responded to it, and that made all the difference.

It was no longer about appearances or specific goals but about reclaiming a sense of strength and balance.

This personal experience shaped how I wanted to approach fitness, both for myself and for others. I realized that fitness isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and mental too. It’s about building a foundation of strength that helps you navigate life’s challenges, no matter what they may be.

Entrepreneurship With A Purpose

When Squat Up was launched in 2017, I never imagined how integral it would become to my journey of transformation.  As I embarked on this journey, I discovered that many people struggle with their own battles, whether it’s a health condition, low self-confidence, or simply the overwhelming demands of life.

The idea of creating a space with my family where people could feel supported, empowered, and motivated became my calling. I wanted to build something that wasn’t just a gym but a community—a place where fitness could become a way of life, not just an obligation.

Over time, this vision took shape. Through trial and error, and constant learning, I’ve seen the incredible impact that a supportive environment can have on people’s lives. Whether it’s someone overcoming their first major fitness milestone or someone finding solace in movement amidst personal struggles, every story is a reminder of why this journey matters.

One of the greatest lessons my diagnosis taught me is just how resilient the human body can be. Even in moments when it feels like our bodies are letting us down, there is an inner strength waiting to be discovered. Through fitness, I found a way to reconnect with that strength.

In my journey as an entrepreneur, I’ve poured my personal experiences into creating something meaningful. It’s not just about offering the best equipment or the most innovative programs—it’s about understanding what people need on a deeper level. 

Today, I have built a community that celebrates resilience and transformation. Squat Up has grown to include innovative offerings, from personal training to unique programs like pickleball courts and open-air workouts, but at its core, it remains the same: to empower individuals to take charge of their health and redefine what fitness means to them.

Maitri Boda is the co-founder of Squat Up.