Own the Space: confidence, strength, community

for women, non-binary and femme identifying folks who are beginner to intermediate exercisers who want to gain confidence in gym settings!

is to empower women, non-binary, and femme-identifying individuals by providing a supportive and inclusive space to build physical strength, confidence, and community. We are committed to fostering a safe, non-judgmental space where everyone can grow stronger, inside and out, while challenging societal norms and celebrating all bodies.

that everyone deserves to take up space, make their voice heard and have a supportive community in and out of the gym.

• Expert-led workshop by a licensed clinical psychologist & Personal Trainer
• Strength training in a beginner-safe, inclusive space
• On-site chiropractic physicians from Northcenter Healthcare: complimentary light myofascial work and muscle activation

• Personal trainer: Alex Cramer, certified by American Counsil on Exercise, Functional Range Conditioning (mobility) Specialist
• Licensed clinical psychologist: Dr. Michelle Montero, Certified in Traumatic Stress Studies, Women’s Mental Health
• Chiropractic Physician: Dr. Andy Park, Webster Method Certified, Certified Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Practitioner (DNSP)
• Chiropractic Physician: Dr. Zach Main, Global Rehabilitation & Injury Prevention (GRIP) Approach Certified

• Actionable ways to challenge negative self-talk, build confidence, and increase self-awareness
• Barbell basics knowledge - how to use the barbell for four (4) classic movements
• Four (4) takeaway workouts that can be modified for the gym or at-home
• Join the alumnus private Own the Space Instagram group
• A sense of community by connecting with others that are "in the same boat"
• A swag bag full of goodies from Own the Space and it's sponsors

• Complimentary food and drinks
• A complimentary light myofascial work and muscle activation from Northcenter Healthcare
• Gender neutral, private bathrooms
• Planned breaks to decompress, chat, eat, drink or move in other ways that feel good to you
• T-shirt and other swag items for purchase
• A post event gathering at a nearby local restaurant/bar to continue the conversation and build community (Location TBD)

our mission is simple: we want more women to feel empowered in understanding their health—both physical and mental. We’re building a space where the so-called “others” feel like they belong. Like they’re seen. No gatekeeping, no elitism—just real talk, shared knowledge, and community.

We’re not here to offer just another cookie-cutter strength training workshop. This is something different. This is about the real work—navigating the discomfort, the vulnerability, and the courage it takes to show up in spaces that weren’t always built with us in mind. Especially gyms, but also boardrooms, classrooms, and anywhere else women are told to shrink.

This isn’t just a workshop. It’s not just a “safe space” for a few hours. It’s the start of a movement—one that’s rooted in confidence, community, and the belief that every woman deserves to own her space, unapologetically. And we think you’re going to want to be part of it.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Hardware Strength & Conditioning, 1834 West Balmoral Avenue, Chicago, United States