About lyd
“It’s cliché to say: work hard, don’t quit. I would really say find yourself and find what’s your, What’s motivating force behind you? And build around that” - Nipsey Hussle
“It’s cliché to say: work hard, don’t quit. I would really say find yourself and find what’s your, What’s motivating force behind you? And build around that” - Nipsey Hussle
Strength has always meant more to Lydia Cuff than muscle. It’s the quiet decision to keep showing up — after loss, after injury, after the game fades and life demands something deeper.Born and raised in Toronto, Lydia found her first lessons in resilience through basketball. Her athletic journey took her from Santa Fe College in Florida to the University of the Cumberlands in Kentucky, where she helped lead her team to the 2015 Mid-South Conference Semi-Finals and earned national recognition for her rebounding performances.But when injury ended her playing career, Lydia faced her toughest opponent yet — the work of rebuilding herself. Through depression, grief, and recovery, she rediscovered the purpose behind movement: to heal, to reconnect, and to choose yourself again and again.
What began as personal recovery evolved into Fit Over Fear — a Toronto-based training practice where movement meets meaning. Lydia created a space that blends personal training, online fitness coaching, and mindful nutrition to help clients build confidence, balance, and sustainable strength.Her approach is rooted in empathy and precision. Every program is designed to help people understand their bodies, trust their progress, and move with intention.Lydia’s commitment extends beyond the gym. Her advocacy for Black women’s health through Younity Healing and her mentorship work with Camp 44 — a leadership program honoring her late friend Shanice Clark — reflect her belief that fitness is about far more than appearance. It’s about community, purpose, and healing.Today, through every session and story shared, Lydia continues her mission: to help others move past fear, rebuild with strength, and live fully in both body and mind.
I learned early that strength isn’t just physical — it’s built through integrity, compassion, and showing up for others. My parents and coaches taught me the value of giving back and leading with purpose, lessons that continue to shape who I am today.While studying Human Services, I realized that lasting impact comes from meeting people where they are — beyond systems and titles — and helping them rebuild in ways that feel personal and sustainable. That belief led me to create spaces where movement and mindset work together to restore confidence, community, and self-trust.Giving back has always been at the heart of my work. Through Fit Over Fear, I offer programs for those facing financial, physical, or emotional challenges. My Mental + Muscle classes combine fitness training with conversations around resilience, mindfulness, and stress management. I also provide limited one-on-one training support for individuals navigating difficult seasons of life.Every program is rooted in one truth: when we move together, we rise together.
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