What's a "Real" Woman?

As any female knows, the media has insisted on making us believe that there is only one type of body that is acceptable for women. If your body does not match that stereotype, the media will convince you that you're basically either invisible or damaged, even if you happen to be beautiful.

You would think that in fitness and sports this kind of stereotyping would not fly. After all, healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes. A gymnast's body tends to be very different from that of a marathon runner, for example. That doesn't mean one is more of a "real woman" than the other.

But if you take a peek at any mainstream fitness magazine, you find out that even there they sell us a stereotypical female body: a little bit of muscle (if any at all), a tiny waist and gigantic fake boobs. Oh, yeah, and a ridiculous unnatural "tan."

Those pecs weren't made in the gym, that's for sure

Even some gym chains suggest what their clientele should look like. Heck, have you ever seen the ads for gym chain Equinox? How are these models in an ad for a gym!? That doesn't make any sense! Why would you bother working out if you want to look like that?

I hope that boxing glove isn't too heavy for her

 

Annie Thorisdottir, 2-time Crossfit champ

Gabby Douglas,
Olympic gymnast, gold medalist

I have always thought that a beautiful female body is one that looks healthy and strong. Our bodies come in many different shapes and we don't all have to look alike or fit a certain mold to be considered "real" women or even to be beautiful.

Healthy and strong are qualities that any woman can achieve. And with healthy and strong comes confident and happy. These are the qualities that make us gorgeous on the inside and outside at any age.

 

Tecia Torres, undefeated pro MMA fighter