ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the intersection of race and gender within HIIT/CrossFit spaces. Women of Color (WOC) are often underrepresented in health and fitness spaces. The reasons why this is the case are varied and multilayered. This chapter looks to unpack these reasons by not only dissecting relevant research but also analyzing the experiences of the stakeholders within these spaces: coaches and members that are WOC. Informal focus groups were conducted to assess relevant themes, including microaggressions, that negatively impacted the inclusion of WOC within these spaces. Using a feminist/intersectional lens, suggestions for how to create “safe spaces” within these settings are provided.
