The Gym Owner Who Teaches Self-Love: Stop Comparing, Start Celebrating Yourself

Navigating the path to self-love and body confidence can feel overwhelming—but for Apolonia Calleja, aka Apples, it’s a journey she lives every day. As a seasoned fitness trainer, gym owner, and Bare Model, Apples embodies what it means to truly embrace oneself. Her life reflects resilience—and, more importantly, shows how to find confidence in the face of challenges.

Empowering portrait of Apolonia Calleja highlighting her strong quad in orange underwear and Dr. Marten boots
Photo: Karlo Gomez / OBARE — Going Bare. Unfiltered beauty

A Journey of Self-Love and Acceptance

For Apples, self-love didn’t come overnight. It developed through years of dedication—not only to fitness but to accepting her body as it naturally evolves. She explains:

“As I get older, I am learning to accept how my body changes. If you continue to love and pour into yourself, you will always accept what changes your body is making and embrace it.”

Her story is an inspiring reminder: self-love isn’t a destination—it’s a continuous journey. The more effort we put into ourselves, the more we learn to cherish the unique changes our bodies undergo.

Fitness as a Lifestyle, Not Just a Look

Fitness for Apples is more than a workout—it’s a way of life. As a trainer and gym owner at LIV FIT (@livfitgymfacility), she inspires others to see movement as a gift, not a chore.

“Being able to stay active and just move my body is a blessing.”

Her drive comes from a deeper purpose:

“I want to live a long life and be the best I can be for my son and future kids!”

Fitness, for her, is about vitality, longevity, and celebrating life—not just achieving a certain look.

Confidence Born from Hard Work

Black and white image of Apolonia Calleja wearing an oversized black coat, confidently posing braless in a bold, artistic portrait
Photo: Karlo Gomez / OBARE — Going Bare. Unfiltered beauty

Apples’ confidence shines because it is earned. She embraces her body proudly, recognizing the power in persistence:

“The female body is remarkable, and recognizing that gives me confidence.”

And she celebrates her achievements joyfully:

“After all those squats, why skip the bikini? No way—I’m rocking it!”
Apolonia Calleja in a vibrant orange one-piece swimsuit, embracing her curves and confidence with a radiant smile
Photo: Karlo Gomez / OBARE — Going Bare. Unfiltered beauty

Her story proves that confidence grows from self-acceptance and honoring the effort we put into our lives.

Balance, Kindness, and Self-Compassion

Part of Apples’ philosophy is maintaining kindness toward herself while pursuing her goals.

“With all the hard work, I do my best to still treat myself.”

Her approach combines discipline with joy: work hard for a time, enjoy life fully, and avoid unnecessary self-misery. Listening to your body and savoring the process, she says, is the key to lasting fulfillment.

Her Message: Stop Comparing, Start Loving Yourself

For women hesitant to reveal themselves, Apples offers this empowering advice:

“Work hard! You know what is good and bad for you. Stop comparing yourself to others and love on yourself!”

She reminds us that self-love comes from focusing on personal progress:

“If you are doing all the things that serve you, you will eventually find the self-love and confidence to be happy and proud to show off your beautiful body!”

Her words are a powerful call to action: honor your journey, and celebrate the unique beauty that is yours alone.

Apolonia Calleja picking a lemon from a tree while wearing a thong, celebrating natural beauty and body confidence in nature
Photo: Karlo Gomez / OBARE — Going Bare. Unfiltered beauty

Embrace Your Body and Celebrate Self-Love

Apolonia’s story is not just about fitness—it’s about transformation. It’s about overcoming self-doubt, finding strength through discipline, and discovering confidence through self-love. Her journey as a Bare Model shows us that self-respect comes from honoring our bodies and celebrating progress.

For anyone on a path toward self-love, Apples offers one final reminder:

"stop comparing yourself to others, start celebrating yourself, and embrace your body in every stage of life."
Close-up portrait of Apolonia Calleja highlighting her natural beauty, glowing skin, and confident expression
Photo: Karlo Gomez / OBARE — Going Bare. Unfiltered beauty

Find Apple's on instagram: @apoloniacalleja