#136 - How Aaliyah Unia Became a Leader for Muslim Women in Fitness | The RunThrough Podcast
Description
In this episode of The RunThrough Podcast, fitness creator and marathon runner Aaliyah Unia sits down with host Ben Sheppard to share the story behind her journey. From growing up without access to fitness, navigating cultural expectations, and recovering from a traumatic head injury, to unintentionally becoming a source of inspiration for others, Aaliyah speaks openly about the challenges that shaped her.
She reflects on hiding her early gym sessions from family, dealing with community stigma, facing online criticism, and the moment she nearly walked away from content entirely. Aaliyah also talks about influencing major brands, the growth of representation in the fitness world, and what running the London Marathon taught her about resilience and identity.
This conversation is honest, grounding and full of moments that anyone on a personal journey will connect with. A reminder that intention, community and self-belief can change everything.
Ben Sheppard - https://www.instagram.com/bensheppard93/
Aaliyah Unia - https://www.instagram.com/aaliyah.unia/
United States
