Sponsored
Maeve Madden: ‘I want women to feel powerful in their bodies, not like they’re trying to shrink them’
Sponsored By
Maeve Madden speaks to IMAGE on her evolving approach to exercising, health and wellbeing, and what we can expect from her headline slots at both the Dublin and Belfast WellFests next month.
On Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10, 2026, WellFest – Europe’s largest outdoor fitness and wellness festival – returns to IMMA, Royal Hospital Kilmainham to mark a milestone 10-year anniversary, and the festival is northern bound as they head to Ormeau Park on September 12-13, 2026, for the first time ever.
This year’s two-day summer festival will welcome over 150 health and fitness experts across 15 stages and areas. Enlisting their biggest and best line-up to date, the programme of events includes the return of Joe Wicks for his first-ever joint main stage appearance with his other half, Rosie Wicks.
Fitness influencer Maeve Madden headlines across both days with Queens Don’t Quit workouts. We caught up with the fitness coach, former professional dancer, best-selling author and personal trainer to talk about body confidence, the timing of Queens Don’t Quit, and what awaits at this year’s WellFest.
Tell us about your approach to exercising, health and wellbeing?
My approach has always been about balance, not extremes. I train hard, but I also respect my body. I’m not interested in punishment workouts or restrictive diets. For me, it’s about building strength, feeling energised, and creating a lifestyle that’s sustainable.
I want women to feel powerful in their bodies, not like they’re constantly trying to shrink them. My workouts are designed to make you feel strong, confident and capable… and yes, we have a lot of fun along the way. It’s not just fitness, it’s a mindset. I always say your goal weight should be feeling confident, happy and healthy in yourself and being able to enjoy life.
How has this changed or evolved throughout your lifetime?
I would think any millennial would agree that many of our approaches have changed massively. In my late teens and early 20s, it was all about aesthetics. I was chasing a look, probably influenced by unrealistic standards, toxic diet culture and magazine headlines. That was about all the education we had, so I didn’t fully understand what my body actually needed.
In my 30s and now 40s, everything is about longevity, hormones, strength and energy. I train smarter, not just harder. I prioritise recovery, sleep, and nutrition in a way I never did before. And honestly, I feel better now than I ever did back then. Strong really is the new standard.
What was the turning point that made you want to pursue this as a career and launch Queens Don’t Quit?
The real turning point was during lockdown. I started going live every day at 10am, because that was early morning in lockdown, and it just exploded. Women from all over the world were showing up, not just for the workouts, but for the energy, the community, the feeling.
That’s when I realised this was bigger than fitness. Women didn’t just want a workout plan, they wanted to feel seen, supported and part of something. That’s how Queens Don’t Quit was born. It was never just about exercise; it was about building a community where women could show up as they are and still feel like a queen.
How important to you was making exercise accessible to all when launching your business?
We know from the research that the biggest barriers to consistent exercise are time, cost, and access to facilities, so removing those barriers was a priority from day one. That’s why Queens Don’t Quit is designed to be done at home, with minimal equipment and flexible time commitments.
The evidence is clear that short, structured workouts can still deliver meaningful improvements in strength, cardiovascular fitness and body composition when done consistently.
Women are busy, often balancing multiple responsibilities, so fitness has to be practical and realistic. If it doesn’t fit into someone’s lifestyle, they won’t stick to it. Fitness has to meet them where they are, not the other way around.
What has the highlight of your journey been to this point in your life?
Honestly, the community. Seeing thousands of women show up, transform their confidence, and support each other… that’s something I’ll never take for granted. And moments like headlining WellFest, standing on that stage and looking out at a sea of women who have been part of this journey… It’s surreal. I started this from my living room, so those moments feel incredibly special.
What would your advice be to those who are struggling on their fitness journey and haven’t found the mode of fitness that best suits them?
Stop trying to force yourself into something you hate. Fitness shouldn’t feel like a chore you dread every day. I absolutely love my workouts, I look forward to them almost every day, of course naturally I’ll have days when I’m too tired, too hormonal… For example, I hate running, I find it boring, a chore, a strain on my knees. I find an alternative.
There are so many ways to move your body, and the best one is the one you’ll actually stick to. Try different things, give yourself time, and don’t expect perfection. Consistency always beats intensity.
Also, focus less on results and more on how you feel. Energy, mood, confidence… Those are the real wins. The physical results will follow.
What are you most looking forward to about WellFest 2026 where you are a dual headliner for both Dublin and Belfast?
The energy. Nothing compares to it. It’s like one big, electric, empowering atmosphere where everyone just lifts each other up.
To headline both Dublin and Belfast feels like a full circle moment for me; I’ll be honest, I am so nervous but especially being Irish. It’s such a privilege to bring Queens Don’t Quit to that stage and create that experience for women in real life, not just through a screen.
And of course… We’re bringing the HIIT party. It’s going to be loud, sweaty, high energy and unforgettable. Let’s go, girls.
Want to find out more about WellFest 2026? See the full line-up and get tickets at wellfest.ie (for the Dublin festival) or wellfestni.com (for the Belfast festival).
Also Read
