Amanda Kloots, a dancer, fitness instructor, and former co-host of the television show The Talk, is spearheading a movement to transform perceptions of pain and recovery. Partnering with Advil, she has launched a campaign titled The Strength Shift, aimed at redefining what real strength means in the context of healing and self-care.
Kloots’ journey toward this new philosophy began following her 2019 C-section, which marked her first experience with surgery and recovery. This pivotal moment prompted her to reconsider the traditional mindset of “no pain, no gain,” which often glorifies pushing through discomfort. “Strength should be more about acknowledging the pain, and shifting whatever you are doing,” Kloots stated during a recent conversation in New York City.
The need to recognize and honor pain is essential, according to Kloots. She elaborated on the purpose of pain as a natural warning system for the body. When faced with issues like inflammation or injury, pain signals the brain to take action. “Your body will often tell you when something’s wrong,” Kloots emphasized, highlighting the importance of listening to these signals rather than ignoring them.
Kloots explained that her recovery journey has led her to understand the critical role of rest. “It wasn’t until the last couple of years that I have taken stock of my body and when I need to pay attention and not push through pain,” she shared. This recognition of the need for recovery has reshaped her approach to fitness and well-being.
Redefining Strength and Wellness
Recovery, Kloots argues, is a vital component of becoming stronger. For instance, during weight training, micro-tears occur in muscles. These tears lead to soreness, but when given adequate time to heal, the muscles grow in strength. The same principle applies to mental health; without allowing time for recuperation, individuals risk burnout and exhaustion.
Kloots advocates for a holistic approach to recovery that includes not only physical rest but also mental rejuvenation. She noted that mental fatigue can accumulate from repetitive training without adequate breaks, leading to a negative mindset. “The key is acknowledging these things,” she stated, stressing the importance of being aware of one’s mental and physical state.
In her partnership with Advil, Kloots has developed a resilience-building workout that exemplifies her philosophy of mindful movement. This workout, now available at Tone House, incorporates low-impact exercises designed to promote strength while being gentle on the body. The workout includes stretches, planking variations, jumping jacks, and squats, catering to individuals at various fitness levels.
Kloots emphasized the importance of scheduling regular rest days, stating, “I try to give myself one day off a week, usually Sundays.” During this time, she engages in activities that support her recovery, such as spending time with her son or using a sauna.
A Mindset Shift Towards Gratitude
A key aspect of Kloots’ message is fostering gratitude for the capabilities of one’s body. She expressed how her perspective on fitness has transformed over the years. “It used to be that a good workout was at least three hours. Now, post-COVID, I am 43 and so grateful for the strength in my body,” she reflected.
Kloots acknowledges that maintaining this mindset can be challenging. The distractions of daily life, including work stress and digital consumption, can detract from one’s focus on health. She noted, “It can be hard to block all that out. You can always be in survival mode, fight or flight.”
Despite the challenges, Kloots remains active and continues to expand her professional pursuits. In addition to her fitness initiatives, she launched a supplement company called Proper Health in January 2025 and is set to appear in a reality television show in the same month.
Through her campaign and personal experiences, Amanda Kloots is not only advocating for a healthier relationship with pain and recovery but also inspiring others to embrace a more balanced approach to strength and wellness. Her efforts illustrate that acknowledging limitations can be a powerful step toward resilience and overall health.
