Strength Over Stereotypes
In the past it has been common for women to fear entering the area of a gym oriented around weight training. That section of the gym is often occupied by seemingly intimidating men with large muscles, since stereotypically, men lift the weights and women stick to the cardio machines. However, this stereotype is challenged in today’s society as more women are learning about weight training and its benefits.
According to the article posted by CBS News, “Women weightlifters challenge stereotypes: ‘It’s cool to be strong,’” women are feeling a sense of empowerment from weightlifting as they learn to become strong both physically and mentally. With this newfound sense of empowerment, women are focusing less on what society expects the female body to look like and do. Instead they are focused on becoming “comfortable in their own skin.”
Women On the Rise in Competitive Powerlifting
Women are also showing a greater interest in competitive powerlifting. According to the article from CBS, more women competed in the raw powerlifting division than men at the 2015 Arnold Classic, a large sports festival that attracts around 18,000 athletes who compete in events ranging from bodybuilding to strongman to fencing.
The club powerlifting team here at Penn State has also had an increase in the number of female members over the past 3 years. Three years ago there were only four or five women on the team and now there are over fifteen. In the annual Iron Lion competition hosted by Penn State Club Powerlifting, there were actually more female lifters than male who competed in 2015.
More women are learning that weight training can positively impact their minds and bodies through gaining confidence and strength.
Anna Francesca Centrella says
This is a fantastic post! It is so important to stress to women that choosing to lift weights does not mean they will automatically develop a “manly body” or those dreaded “man shoulders”…IF that is what they are worrying about. On the other hand, if that is the goal, then great! With a strong work-out ethic and the right nutrition, they can definitely achieve a muscular figure. Society is changing and a woman’s role is evolving, as is the stereotypical woman’s body. I think women bodybuilders are incredible, and I love the Penn State Club Powerlifting team. Lots of people still do not know about it, so it is great that you are informing us.
I actually follow a few “bodybuilders” on YouTube if you are interested in following their workouts and/or diet habits. Three of my favorite channels are “NaturallyStefanie,” “Nikki Blackketter,” and “Heidi Somers.” All of these girls have different workout regimens and lifestyles, so it is cool to see the various ways we can achieve a sculpted body. Here are the links to their channels:
Naturally Stefanie: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJwqpwIzRiAR1eglS3bguQ
Nikki Blackketter: https://www.youtube.com/user/nikkiblackketter
Heidi Somers: https://www.youtube.com/user/heidisomers