For The Girls: Women’s Only Gym Section
posted by Tanna Gillis | April 16, 2024 | In OpinionHave you ever heard the term “gymtimidation”? If not, it is exactly what it sounds like – a fear or nervousness about being in a gym atmosphere.
I have talked with so many women who avoid going to the gym altogether because they find the atmosphere intimidating and uncomfortable. It is rather ironic that this is so common considering we live in a society that places so much pressure on women to maintain the perfect body that meets the constantly-changing beauty standard. Women should not have to worry about being objectified or sexualized during their workouts. Wearing a sports bra, leggings, or shorts to be comfortable when exercising is not an invitation to men – which seems to be a hard concept for far too many men to grasp.
To combat this issue and create a more welcoming, safe gym environment for women of all experience levels and backgrounds, fitness centers should consider implementing a female-only section. Ideally, these sections would offer all of the same equipment as the general public areas. This would allow women to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who all understand how uncomfortable it can be at times to work out, especially if it is something you are new at.
If creating these designated areas for women to workout will encourage more women to get active and form healthier habits, it seems like a no-brainer. Whether the goal is to gain muscle, lose fat, or just gain some mental clarity, women deserve a safe space to do so.
While this may seem like an unrealistic idea due to space and/or funding, it is not impossible. Fitness Connection here in Fayetteville offers a women-only section of their center, and it seems to have been a major success. I highly recommend this gym to any women in the area who are looking to start working out and want to avoid some of that “gymtimidation.”
Photo Courtesy by Ossesous
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