Introducing Sisters In Sweat
Sport is a fun and accessible way for everyone to get fit, and stay fit. For folks just starting out, this may be less about fitness and more about spending time with friends. Even for those further ahead in their fitness journey, sports offers a great way to get your steps in and meet your cardio goals, and break the general monotony of fixed gym routines.
One of our goals at Rainmatter is to make recreational sports accessible to more Indians. The idea is that this will have a cascading effect on the overall health and fitness of our population. Around us, we’ve seen that women have more barriers to get into sport and to continue. This is why we chose to back Sisters in Sweat – they run a women-only sporting community, creating a space where women of all skill-levels can come together and play.
We’ve also partnered with Sisters in Sweat to conduct classes for our Zerodha women employees in Bangalore. Over the past few months, we’ve seen substantial impact – more women are working out regularly, connecting with like-minded women, and picking up new hobbies. We’re excited to support Sisters in Sweat on their journey, and be a part of their journey as they shape women’s fitness in India!
Here’s what Swetha, the co-founder of Sisters in Sweat, has to say about their journey:
The Story of Sisters In Sweat: A Movement for Women, by Women
Sisters In Sweat is a women-centric community that promotes fitness, wellness, and camaraderie through sports and movement-based activities. Their mission is to create a safe, inclusive space where women can connect, grow, and empower each other through physical activity, whether it’s football, running, yoga, or other forms of exercise. They aim to make movement accessible and enjoyable while fostering a sense of sisterhood and support.
The organization’s mission addresses the significant dropout rate of women from sports post-education by providing accessible platforms for participation, regardless of athletic ability, age, or socio-economic status. This initiative not only promotes physical health but also fosters a supportive sisterhood, challenging traditional societal norms and inspiring future generations.
The Founders and Their Journey
Sisters In Sweat was founded by Swetha Subbiah and Tanvie Hans, two women who recognized the need for a dedicated space where women could engage in fitness without the pressures of competition or judgment. They envisioned a community-driven movement that goes beyond just exercise—it’s about empowerment, confidence, and shared experiences.
Swetha Subbiah is a renowned fitness coach and movement specialist, and one of only four Nike-certified instructors in India. With years of experience in helping people build sustainable fitness habits, she has worked with individuals across different backgrounds, advocating for strength training, mobility, and holistic wellness. Her passion for creating inclusive fitness spaces inspired her to co-found Sisters In Sweat, ensuring that women have access to a community that supports their physical and mental well-being.
Tanvie Hans is a professional footballer who has played in both India and the UK, making her one of the few Indian women to have trained with English football clubs. She has played for prestigious clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur F.C. Ladies and Fulham F.C. Ladies, gaining invaluable experience in competitive football. With her deep love for the sport and first-hand experience of the challenges women face in pursuing athletics, she wanted to create a platform where women of all skill levels could enjoy sports without barriers. Through Sisters In Sweat, she hopes to encourage more women to embrace movement in ways that feel empowering and enjoyable.
The Journey and Growth of Sisters In Sweat
What started as a small group of women gathering for casual football sessions quickly gained momentum, attracting women from different backgrounds who shared a desire to stay active in a fun and inclusive environment. As word spread, Sisters In Sweat expanded beyond football, incorporating a variety of fitness activities such as yoga, running, strength training, and even adventure-based movement programs. This evolution allowed the community to cater to a diverse range of interests, ensuring that every woman could find a form of movement that resonated with her.
Through social media and word-of-mouth, the community grew rapidly, fostering deep connections among members who bonded over shared fitness journeys. Sisters In Sweat became more than just a fitness platform—it became a support system where women encouraged and uplifted each other, both inside and outside of their workout sessions. Events, workshops, and collaborations with wellness brands further amplified their impact, making it clear that there was a strong need for a space where women could reclaim movement on their own terms.
From a handful of participants to a thriving, ever-growing network, Sisters In Sweat has established itself as a key player in the women’s wellness space. The community has hosted large-scale events, partnered with leading fitness and wellness brands, and cultivated an environment where women feel comfortable pushing their limits and redefining their relationship with fitness. With each session, new members join in, creating a ripple effect that continues to inspire and empower more women to embrace movement as a lifelong journey.
The Road Ahead: Expanding the Sisterhood
Looking forward, Sisters In Sweat aims to expand its reach by introducing more diverse fitness programs, collaborating with wellness experts, and launching city-wide and digital initiatives. Plans are in motion to create mentorship programs where experienced athletes can guide and inspire newcomers. They also intend to work with schools and colleges to encourage young girls to stay engaged in sports, breaking the cycle of dropout rates in female participation.
Another key focus is corporate wellness, with events and workshops designed to integrate movement into the workplace, helping women prioritize their health even in professional settings. The organization is also exploring partnerships with brands that align with their mission, ensuring that fitness remains accessible to all women, regardless of their background.
At its core, Sisters In Sweat is more than just a fitness initiative—it’s a movement towards redefining how women experience sports and wellness. By fostering an environment of inclusivity, strength, and joy, they are not only changing individual lives but also reshaping the narrative around women in fitness for future generations.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or someone just beginning your fitness journey, there’s a place for you in the Sisterhood. Join the movement, break a sweat, and be part of the change!
