Nicole Ari Parker on Why Improving Black Women’s Health Is Vital

After spending over two decades on screen and stage, most recently as Lisa ‘LTW’ Todd Wexley in And Just Like That…, Nicole Ari Parker is branching out as a brand founder. The actress, facing the recurring issue of hair maintenance after workouts, created an absorbent yet breathable headband designed to protect various hairstyles from sweat. Thus, Gymwrap, her activewear brand, was born.

In an exclusive chat, the 53-year-old star, who has two children with her actor husband Boris Kodjoe, shared insights about her venture and the barriers to exercise faced by black women as she commenced filming for the third season of And Just Like That….

When asked about her motivation to found Gymwrap, Nicole described it as a labor of love and problem-solving. She shared how juggling two young children made salon visits a luxury and how her husband’s love for gym workouts and beach jogs inspired her to think about how much hair maintenance was controlling her life.

The realization hit her that many in the black community prioritize their hair over exercise, which was reiterated by a statement from the U.S. Surgeon General indicating that 85 percent of the health issues affecting black women are preventable through exercise and diet. Nicole wanted to create a tool that allowed women to maintain their hair while keeping fit.

Discussing Gymwrap’s versatility, she assured that it works for all hairstyles due to its high absorbency and ability to wick away moisture while letting out heat. Unlike other headbands that merely keep hair out of the face, Gymwrap’s unique technology also includes sweat-absorbing visors and soft pants with pockets, available in all sizes.

Talking about her fitness regime, Nicole revealed that the pressures of being an actress on a fashion-centric show motivate her to stay fit. She emphasized that working out has evolved for her; it’s now more about mental centering and appreciating her body rather than just achieving flat abs. Her focus is on longevity—wanting to be around when her kids have kids.

Nicole’s favorite way to exercise includes walking everywhere, especially when in New York, where she often covers over 11,000 steps just running errands. She combines practicality with gym workouts, usually focusing on cardio and targeting specific body parts.

She likes to start her day with morning meditation, avoiding her phone to recalibrate her energy positively. She aims to work out at least four days a week, sometimes even doing quick circuits by her bed if pressed for time.

On nutrition, Nicole identifies as a foodie with a keen interest in the food component of wellbeing. With a 6ft 6in son who’s a voracious eater, she balances health-conscious family meals consisting of proteins, vegetables, and carbs. Family dinners are cherished times for connection and nourishment.

Though not a gadget person, Nicole has made it a point to consume more water by lining up bottles each morning and takes hair, skin, and nail supplements. She also enjoys making shakes with spirulina for its nutrient-rich benefits.

Friendship is pivotal for Nicole, who values laughter, loyalty, and supportive bonds. She feels fortunate to have girlfriends who embody these traits.

Reflecting on her marriage, Nicole attributes its success to mutual kindness, shared values, and having fun together. Their 19-year anniversary passed recently, and she credits their individualism and common goals, particularly regarding their kids and travels, for their lasting relationship.

Nicole shared the mission behind the Kodjoe Family Foundation, initiated in honor of their daughter Sophie, who was born with spina bifida. The foundation supports families with children having neural tube defects and has broadened its scope to aid in other areas. Proceeds from Gymwrap help fund global health initiatives, and a recent grant supports young athletes with access to tennis academies, reflecting the family’s love for the sport.

For more information and to explore the Gymwrap collection, visit thegymwrap.com

Source: HELLO!