My daughter is an athlete, and it can be mentally challenging like any individual sport, especially combat sports. She faces her own struggles with it, and I’m trying to find a female version of someone like Goggins, though maybe not exactly Goggins since he’s a bit extreme. I have made mistakes as a parent, but not to the extent his parents did! I’m looking for tough women who lead by example, openly share their struggles, failures, and successes, and inspire other female athletes. Any suggestions?
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Jessica Buettner is incredibly inspiring, particularly during her prime. Alongside her career as a full-time pharmacist, she is a world champion powerlifter and has engaged in multiple athletic pursuits. She maintains a shredded physique, manages type 1 diabetes, and remains humble and relatable.
Maher Ilona is a powerful rugby player who proudly embraces her muscular build. She’s outspoken about body positivity and does not hesitate to shut down haters and negative trolls.
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I just have to say, that she plays rugby with incredible beauty and lethal strength. Watching compilations of her fending off opponents is an absolute joy.
I adore her. She’s been a huge influence in helping me improve my body image.
I was going to say the same thing and I’m glad someone else mentioned it first. Plus her social media is amazing.
Molly Carlson is an amazing cliff diver. And Ilona Maher is also fantastic; she’s not only cool but also funny.
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Serena Williams and my new favorite boxer, Imane Khelif, are incredible. Laila Ali is an amazing boxer, and Anne Wolfe is great as well.
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It’s impressive how much mental strength can influence performance. Simone Biles is a perfect example of someone who has been open about her challenges and still exhibits incredible fortitude and resilience.
The Olympics have just ended, so there should be features on remarkable women. Laura Flessel, though not a current Olympian, is notable as the first Black female Olympian in fencing from France. She fits well within the combat sports category.
If she’s into documentaries, she should check out Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa. I saw it and was blown away by her ability to overcome so many challenges to reach the summit of Everest, not once, not twice. She holds the Guinness World Record for the most Everest summits by a woman, 10 times. It’s wild that she’s not more widely recognized given her incredible accomplishments.
Jen Thompson stands out as an exceptional powerlifting champion and renowned bench presser. She excels in her sport while also balancing her roles as a teacher and a mother, showcasing her remarkable dedication and versatility.
Lindi Marcusen is a Team USA Paralympic track athlete. She had a serious car accident which resulted in a brain injury and leg amputation. Formerly a gymnast, she started track and field as she adapted to life with an amputation. She’s an amazing athlete with a strong spirit. I can’t wait to see her compete.
Janja Garnbret is an amazing rock climber, possibly the best. My top three also include Alex Puccio, who’s pregnant but can still do a one-arm pullup, and Amit Elor, an outstanding gold medal wrestler.
Considering her age and unique challenges, it might help to find female athletes in other sports with similar body types. From my experience, having role models who look like you can be incredibly motivating and comforting.
I am not an expert in combat sports, but if you’re into strength sports, you should look up Chloe Brennan. She competes in strongwoman events and offers both great, wholesome content and a candid look at her struggles.