Girls face a serious problem when going to the gym.  If female, one is expected to go straight to the treadmills or ellipticals and to stay on that side; only the brave girls make their way to the weight portion of the gym (also known as the “guys’ section”). Now if a girl does venture over to the “guys’ side” she is received by stares of disbelief from other girls and confusion from men: who is this chick taking my time away from the weights? Lifting is going to make her so manly!Â
What baffles me is why a strong woman who is fit and lifts weights is viewed as manly and looked at negatively. I view girls with muscles as healthy and in shape, far from unattractive. Look at Serena Williams. She is one of the world’s best female tennis players, yet constantly gets mean comments about her “manly” body. Serena has defended herself, saying that she has learned to love her strong body.
I think it is a shame that both men and women are guilty of body shaming women into avoiding being “too muscular;” there is no such thing! While you can still get some cardio in, don’t be afraid to get some stares as you go lift some weights! You will inspire more girls to join and eliminate this stupid stereotype. Be confident in yourself and your body, and happy lifting!   Â