When it comes to powerhouse women who bridge strength and style, few do it like Stephanie Sanzo. Known for her fierce workouts, empowering mindset, and down-to-earth attitude, Stephanie doesn’t just lift heavy—she lifts others with her authenticity. Today, we’re diving into one of her signature upper body training sessions, with a twist: we’re also talking makeup, confidence, and self-expression. Because who says you can’t be strong and stylish at the same time?
Warm-Up: Prime and Prep
Just like makeup needs a good base, a solid warm-up is essential before an upper body workout. Stephanie starts her sessions with dynamic movements to activate key muscles and prevent injury.
Here’s a simple warm-up you can try, inspired by her style:
- Arm circles (30 seconds forward, 30 seconds backward)
- Scapular push-ups (2 sets of 10)
- Band pull-aparts (3 sets of 15)
- Wall slides (2 sets of 12)
This gets the shoulders, back, and chest ready for action.
As Stephanie puts it, “Don’t rush the warm-up. It’s like applying primer—you’re setting yourself up for success.”
Workout Breakdown: Upper Body Strength
Stephanie’s approach to upper body training is all about compound movements, progressive overload, and perfect form. Here’s a sample workout session based on her training style:
1. Barbell Bench Press – 4 sets of 6–8 reps
A foundational chest exercise that also targets triceps and shoulders. Stephanie emphasizes keeping the feet planted, engaging the lats, and controlling the descent.
“It’s not just about pushing the weight—it’s about pushing your limits.”
2. Pull-Ups – 3 sets to failure
Whether you use body weight or assistance bands, pull-ups are a must in her routine. They work the back, biceps, and core.
Stephanie’s tip: “Don’t be afraid to start with assistance. Strength is built, not gifted.”
3. Dumbbell Shoulder Press – 3 sets of 10
Targeting the deltoids, this exercise is great for building those rounded shoulders. She often alternates between standing and seated versions for variety.
4. One-Arm Dumbbell Row – 3 sets of 10 per side
Great for isolating the lats and mid-back. Stephanie recommends focusing on the contraction, not just the movement.
5. Tricep Dips – 3 sets of 12
You can do these on parallel bars or a bench. Keep the chest upright and elbows tucked to hit the triceps effectively.
Finisher: Battle Ropes – 3 rounds of 30 seconds on, 30 seconds rest
Stephanie loves ending with something that elevates the heart rate and brings a mental edge. Battle ropes are perfect for that extra burn.
Cool-Down: Stretch and Reflect
Post-workout, Stephanie includes stretching and mobility drills to improve recovery and keep the shoulders healthy.
A quick cool-down includes:
- Child’s pose with side stretch
- Doorway pec stretch
- Wrist circles
- Neck rolls
“Take the time to thank your body. It just did something amazing.”
Now, Let’s Talk Makeup
What’s refreshing about Stephanie is how she balances her intense athleticism with a love for beauty. She often wears minimal yet polished makeup, even when lifting heavy, proving that femininity and strength are not mutually exclusive.
Here are some of her go-to makeup habits:
1. Less Is More
Stephanie’s everyday look typically involves:
- A tinted moisturizer or light foundation
- Brow gel to keep things clean and defined
- Waterproof mascara that holds up during workouts
- A touch of bronzer and highlight for that natural glow
- Nude lip gloss or balm for hydration
She once joked, “If it survives a set of pull-ups, it deserves to be in my makeup bag.”
2. Brows and Confidence
Well-groomed brows are a staple for Stephanie. “Even if I have no other makeup on, I like my brows to be on point,” she says. Brows frame the face and can boost confidence in and out of the gym.
3. The Power of Lip Color
On days when she’s not training or filming, she’ll experiment with bold lips. “A red lip feels strong—it’s like war paint,” she laughs.
4. Skin Care Over Cover-Up
With her active lifestyle, skincare is a bigger focus than heavy foundation. She prioritizes hydration, SPF, and gentle exfoliation.
“Healthy skin is the best foundation you can wear.”
Makeup & Muscles: A Message of Empowerment
Stephanie’s openness about enjoying both fitness and beauty is part of what makes her so relatable. She challenges the outdated stereotype that women have to pick between being strong and being stylish.
“Wearing makeup doesn’t mean I’m not serious in the gym. And lifting weights doesn’t make me less feminine. I do both because I love both—and that’s enough.”
In a world where women often feel pressured to choose one identity, Stephanie Sanzo is a refreshing reminder that you can be both tough and tender, bold and barefaced, a lifter and a lover of lipstick.
Behind the Scenes: How She Balances It All
Between motherhood, content creation, workouts, and brand partnerships, how does Stephanie stay grounded?
1. Consistency Over Perfection
She doesn’t chase perfect days. Instead, she focuses on showing up—even if it’s not at 100%. “If I can do something, even a little, it’s a win.”
2. Setting Boundaries
Stephanie carves out time for herself, whether it’s a walk, journaling, or a slow skincare routine.
3. Celebrating Progress
“Your journey is yours. Whether it’s hitting a PR or finally mastering your eyeliner—celebrate that.”
Final Thoughts: Strength Is Beautiful
Training upper body with Stephanie Sanzo is about more than just muscles—it’s about mindset. And chatting makeup with her is about more than looking good—it’s about feeling good in your own skin.
She reminds us that we’re allowed to embrace all parts of ourselves. That we don’t need to shrink who we are to fit in one box. And that whether we’re chasing reps or chasing dreams, we’re powerful.
So next time you pick up a barbell—or a makeup brush—channel that Sanzo strength and own your moment.
