Age-old beliefs of how women should present themselves in this world are deep-rooted in the traditional definition of womanhood. Patriarchy expects women to be fragile and feminine and they should not, at any cost, have their bodies look rough and “manly”. Women sweating and lifting heavy weights were extremely unpleasant sights for society. The women who dared to challenge these sexist norms were questioned constantly about their identity, given labels, and assumed to be lesbians.
Women are stereotyped in every field no matter what profession they choose. The sports industry is no exception. Women were not allowed to take part in sports activities just because they would look less feminine. Women were prevented to play sports because they had to “protect” their reproductive systems. As if the only purpose of a woman’s life was to give birth. As if men didn’t have any reproductive system.
Even in this century, women in sports are not given preference. The fundings are extremely low as compared to that of men in sports. The wage is minimum and prizes are lesser. Harassment and violence are a result of the perspective of male dominance. Society cannot stand the view of a woman in a leadership position. Women are perceived to be weak, be it physically, emotionally, or mentally.
Women are constantly bashing such notions of being “lady-like”. Since the 1800s, women have stepped forward to fight for their elbow space in this male-dominated sports industry. They are continuously redefining the definition of womanhood and femininity. It is still a long way to go. Start at your home. Teach your children to embrace their individuality rather than following the sexist norms society has imposed on both men and women. The world would be a better place to live in.