My name is Mihika, and I'm a Fitness Instructor at TeamUCL Gym and a UCL Law Graduate.
Engaging in physical activity has been a consistent part of my life - whether it was playing random games after school as a child, going semi-pro in Basketball during my GCSEs, and incorporating the gym into my routine for almost 8 years now. What started as going to the gym to chase an unhealthy physique has grown into something far more meaningful; a source of confidence, stability, and personal growth. This Girl Can represents this! Showing up for yourself, moving out of your comfort zone, and breaking away from comparison and stereotypes. To me, it’s about celebrating the power of movement, progress, and showing up as you are.
Being active plays a huge role in my well-being and daily routine. The gym isn’t just a place I train; it’s a space where I reconnect with myself, challenge my limits, and prioritise my mental and physical health. Over the years, I’ve learned that movement doesn’t have to look a certain way to be valuable, it just has to feel right for you.
Benefits of being active:
The benefits of being active go far beyond the physical. The gym isn’t just a place I train; it’s a space where I reconnect with myself, challenge my limits, and prioritise my mental and physical health. Over the years, I’ve learned that movement doesn’t have to look a certain way to be valuable, it just has to feel right for you.
Going to the gym five times a week adds stability to my routine and has become dedicated “me time.” It’s a non-negotiable moment in my day where I invest in myself and build resilience - giving me a sense of structure, energy and sense of achievement that I carry into all areas of my life.
Being active has also taught me balance. Activity doesn’t always mean long or intense workouts; sometimes it’s simply showing up, moving your body, and doing what you can.
My advice for someone trying a new activity or sport:
Starting something new can be intimidating, nerves, self-doubt, and fear of making mistakes are all normal. Especially when it comes to sport and physical activity, I understand deeply why so many women are hesitant. The biggest advice I would give you is to focus on how movement makes you feel, not how it looks or how you compare to others. Everyone starts somewhere, and confidence is built through action, not perfection. Moreover, there is no 'correct' way to be active - do what makes you feel good, be it walking, dancing, playing a sport, weightlifting, or cycling!
Breaking away from stereotypes has been one of the most empowering parts of my journey. I’ve stopped chasing unrealistic physical ideals and learned that my body needs to be fuelled, respected, and supported. Through this process, I've also learned to love my body more, because what our bodies are capable of is truly mind-blowing. Feeling strong, healthy, and capable gives me so much happiness.
Reflecting on my journey, becoming a Level 2 Fitness Instructor at TeamUCL Gym feels like a full-circle moment. It represents growth, self-belief, and the confidence to take up space in the sphere of physical activity. My message is simple: you belong in movement spaces exactly as you are. When you feel like you are not enough, remind yourself of all the things your body does for you even without you doing anything, and it deserves to be taken care of - physically and mentally.
Thinking about joining the gym?
Why not start your 2026 with TeamUCL Gym, with the New Year Student Offer! We all know that getting active has a whole host of added benefits, including doing wonders for your mental wellbeing. By boosting your dopamine levels and increasing your energy, working out at the gym is the perfect way to help you start 2026 in a positive way.
Staying fit doesn’t have to break the bank, either – this January, you can train with us for just £21.50 a month for 6 months, available until the end of January. This is guaranteed to be the best price available all year.
To purchase your membership, simply follow this link here and search for ‘TeamUCL Gym’ in the drop-down menu and select the 'Student 6 Month New Year's Offer' membership deal.