As the saying goes, “Never underestimate the power of fitness,” and Erica Liermann is a prime example of that message.
Liermann, a veteran of the U.S. Army, joined the military following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. After multiple deployments, including combat time in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Liermann left the Army, but couldn’t shake the emotional and psychological wounds. After being diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, she searched for some type of healthy outlet to overcome her depression.
Fitness Came Calling
Working out became her core therapy, and these days, far removed from the Baghdad desert, she’s helping others through fitness. Liermann leads classes at Dub Fitness, a gym she established in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, a Philadelphia suburb.
Serving as a military police officer, Liermann was exposed to some nerve-racking moments in the Army.
“I was stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba,” Liermann told CBS News Philadelphia. “I was in Korea, I was in Baghdad, Iraq; Al-Asad, Iraq.”
Liermann, from Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, is now a mom and is doing well growing her fitness brand. However, she struggled for years with PTSD and crippling anxiety. Like a “good soldier,” the veteran tried to push her feelings down. It didn’t work.
“A lot of us just suppress it, which then makes it worse,” Liermann said.
Receiving help, she slowly put the fractured pieces of her life back into place. Fitness classes helped blow off steam, and she received financial support via the Military Warriors Foundation and Wells Fargo. Through vehicle donations and mentoring programs, Wells Fargo assists veterans transitioning out of the military.
Building Strength Through Resilience
The helping hand provided a shot at her post-military dreams.
“I feel really fortunate to be here,” Liermann said.
Besides gaining physical strength, working out clears the veteran’s head so she can focus on more important things – providing for others. She knows all types of people struggle with mental health, not just veterans.
“People come from all different walks of life,” Liermann said. “But in here, we are all like one team.”
Looking back on her journey, Liermann faced some dark days. Thoughts of taking her own life crept in. “I look back and I say it may have saved my life,” Liermann said about fitness. “Suicide was a thought. I used to think about suicide.”
These days, a healthy Liermann hopes she can pass on the value of exercise to the women who come to her gym. “Fitness is your strength!” Liermann yells as she pushes attendees through a workout.
Liermann’s up-tempo, high-energy classes carry a positive vibe. She posts short messages on the walls of her gym to inspire and encourage others.
“If you can't beat fear, do it scared,” Liermann said. “And if you're tired, do it tired.”
It’s all about finding a way to persevere.
Liermann said she’s formed a sisterhood bond with her attendees. She wants her “sisters” to know they can accomplish anything through strength and empowerment.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting "988."
