Katharina Buczek
And finally, Natalie is a female– a fact that should be insignificant but, nonetheless, severely impacts the perception of her participation in pro sports. And recently, she opened up about battling the traditional view of women in sports in her very own family.
“My Abuela (grandma) was very traditional and believed that girls should not be strong and athletic,” Natalie wrote in one TikTok.
But, Natalie did not give up on her passion and continued working to prove everyone wrong. Then, one day, her Abuela showed up at the gym to watch her train. And afterward, Natalie even began spotting her Abuela in the crowd at competitions.
“[My Abuela] was diagnosed with dementia this year. We stay connected together, training every day– mostly by Facetime,” Natalie revealed.
She also shared how her Abuela is now her biggest fan and supporter.
“I am so proud of her. She always wears my competition shirts when she trains, and it makes my heart so happy.”
This TikTok alone garnered over 2.1 million views, gained nearly three hundred and thirty thousand likes, and spurred countless comments. There, TikTok users from around the world commended Natalie for changing the expectations for women everywhere.
“CRUSHING generational norms! Way to redefine what ‘strong’ looks like in your family,” wrote one commenter.
“This is actually so sweet. I’m so glad you and your Abuela have managed to get past gender expectations and train together!” said another commenter.
So, while there is definitely no shortage of female health gurus and athletes online nowadays, Natalie’s approach to fitness is a bit different. She doesn’t just post “what I eat in a day” videos or her workout splits.
Instead, Natalie is helping educate women on how to heal their insides– whether that be generational wounds or mental health struggles– in order to become mentally fit. Then, and only then, can athletes truly shine on the field, court, or gym floor.
