Tamika is a COVID survivor and an adopted mom of three children. She is also a professional fitness trainer/instructor and entrepreneur. Before, the pandemic Harden ran a viable gym in New York, where she easily trained 200+ women a month.
Having faced a near-death experience, Tamika’s story is one of triumph, optimism, hope, and strength. She has pushed her way through the virus with a positive mental attitude and through positive action via healthy living and wellness.
Presently, Ms. Harden trains most of her clients virtually online and a small percentage in-person at a local gym.
Tammy: Please tell us about yourself and the work that you do?
Tamika: I’m a certified personal trainer and body, contouring expert. For over 15 years, I’ve helped 100’s of people get in shape and reach fitness goals that once seemed impossible. My passion and excitement for fitness are contiguous. My goal is to help people fall in love with self-care.
Tammy: What have been some obstacles you have overcome during the pandemic that made you a better woman?
Tamika: Along with several other industries, the fitness industry was hit hard. I was forced to close my business for seven months. Experiencing lost wages, my business, and financial stability were in shambles. I had to have faith that things would get better.
There were many days I felt hopeless. I wanted to give up. But then I thought about my clients, all the people who looked to me for guidance during this trying time. Knowing that people were counting on me, I quickly shifted my business virtually. With very little time to prepare, I begin teaching 3–4 classes per day via zoom to hold my fitness community accountable.
This shift also helped me stay hopeful and not give up. This experience made me a stronger woman, and it helped me put things into perspective of what’s important and what’s not. As a result, I have taken better care of my business finances and have improved my financial literacy. As a small business owner, it’s important to have a plan and strategies in place to protect yourself as much as possible during times of unexpected changes.
Tammy: What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?
Tamika: I truly enjoy encouraging people to accomplish their goals, while seeking happiness and fulfillment. I use physical fitness as the platform to encourage change, but my true purpose is to help people embark on a greater journey focusing on change from the inside out. I want my clients to know that with the right plan, attitude and mindset, we have the power to change the things we are unhappy with. If you’re not in love with your body, ok, let’s work on it. Your career needs some revamping. Ok, let’s create a plan. We have more control over what happens in our lives than we know. It starts with your mindset.
Tammy: What are you currently working on?
Tamika: I am currently working on launching my virtual fitness library and increasing my reach and engagement worldwide. It’s a great feeling to be able to help people reach their goals using virtual interaction from anywhere in the world. bodybytamika.com will house my entire online fitness library and much more.
Tammy: What is a quote that you live by?
Tamika: In order to have something you’ve never had, you’ve got to do something you’ve never done.
Tammy: What is a super fun fact about yourself that most may not be aware of?
Tamika: I was a foster parent of three boys. 2 out of 3 of the children I’ve fostered, I had the privilege of adopting. My two sons are ages 11 and 17.
Tammy: What else would you like our readers to know about you?
Tamika: Growing up poor in the urban ghetto-like many others, my resources have been limited. I have been breaking down barriers from the start, and I’ve also encountered many struggles as an entrepreneur. I am a living testimony that faith still works. I want to use my story to help empower others who also lack resources or knowledge.
Keep up to date by connecting on social media:
Instagram: @bodybytamika
Facebook: Body By Tamika
Website: bodybytamika.com
YouTube: BodyByTamika
Interview Done By: Tammy Reese | @tammyreesemedia
