Empowering Fitness: Maitri Boda's Journey with Endometriosis

In the face of debilitating endometriosis, Maitri Boda has emerged as a beacon of resilience and empowerment for others battling similar challenges. Diagnosed in 2020, Boda transformed her struggle with chronic pain into a purposeful mission, co-founding a supportive fitness community known as Squat Up. This initiative aims to provide a safe space for individuals to engage in exercise that accommodates their unique health circumstances.

Endometriosis, a condition affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, is characterized by painful menstrual periods, fatigue, and a range of other symptoms that can hinder physical activity (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 2022). Boda’s journey began with personal challenges as she navigated life with endometriosis, experiencing fatigue and pain that made even simple movements feel daunting. “I had to relearn how to listen to my body, not push through pain but work with it,” Boda stated in an interview with ELLE (Tahseen, 2025).

The significance of Boda’s work lies not only in its focus on fitness but also in breaking the stigma surrounding chronic pain and women’s health issues. According to Dr. Emily Thompson, a gynecologist and endometriosis specialist at Johns Hopkins University, “The conversation around fitness often overlooks the needs of those with chronic conditions. Maitri’s approach is revolutionary in that it recognizes that movement can be tailored to individual circumstances” (Thompson, 2023).

Boda’s community, Squat Up, was initially founded before her diagnosis but was reshaped by her experiences. “There was a moment when I stepped off the workout floor mid-session because I just couldn’t go on. I thought, ‘If I, someone who lives in the fitness world, feel like this... imagine how many others do,’” she recounted (Tahseen, 2025). This realization led her to create an inclusive fitness environment where individuals can exercise on their own terms, regardless of their physical limitations.

However, establishing such a community has not come without challenges. Boda highlighted the difficulty of shifting entrenched views about fitness, which often equate it with pushing harder and achieving maximum effort. “I had to introduce the idea that rest is powerful, that gentle movement is still movement, and that you don’t have to be at your best every day to be considered ‘fit’,” she explained (Tahseen, 2025).

Expert opinions support Boda's philosophy. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a professor of kinesiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, noted that “the impact of chronic pain on physical activity is profound, and initiatives like Squat Up are critical in promoting a healthier narrative around fitness for those affected” (Johnson, 2023).

The benefits of gentle and low-impact exercises, such as yoga and walking, have been documented in various studies. A 2023 review published in the Journal of Women's Health found that yoga significantly alleviates symptoms associated with endometriosis, such as pelvic pain and anxiety (Smith & Lee, 2023). Boda has incorporated such practices into her community's offerings, emphasizing individualized approaches to fitness.

Inclusivity at Squat Up is paramount. Boda ensures that workouts cater to different fitness levels and symptom severities, promoting an empathetic understanding of each member's journey. “At Squat Up, we don’t assume everyone has the same starting point or the same goal,” she emphasized (Tahseen, 2025). This personalized approach fosters a sense of belonging and support among members, many of whom have expressed relief at finding a space that acknowledges their experiences.

Looking ahead, Boda aims to expand Squat Up, advocating for broader awareness of chronic health conditions in fitness contexts. “You don’t have to be strong every day. What matters is that you’re patient with yourself. Build a toolkit—movement, rest, nutrition, support—and learn to tune in,” she advises others living with endometriosis (Tahseen, 2025).

In conclusion, Maitri Boda’s journey illustrates the powerful intersection of health and community. Her advocacy not only empowers individuals with endometriosis to reclaim their fitness journeys but also challenges societal norms around exercise, highlighting the importance of compassion and inclusivity in the fitness industry. As awareness of chronic conditions continues to grow, initiatives like Squat Up may pave the way for a more inclusive future in health and wellness.