Women Fear Sports Due to Worry About Becoming Too Muscular. Olympic Gold Medal Winner, Jessica Ennis Encourages Them To Get Involved
Even in 2012, sports (like many professions) are still dominated by men. Many women fear getting involved in sports for a variety of reasons. Some fear that they’re not strong enough and others fear that they will be too strong. It sounds odd to say that someone would fear being too strong, but generally, women strive to present a delicate appearance, and persona. This is something society has embedded in us. Weight lifting is a big part of training when you are an athlete, and the fear of becoming too muscular is a concern for many women who consider life as an athlete. It can be conflicting to choose between a less muscular appearance that is deemed “appropriate” for a female, or pursuing a path that interests you, but comprises your supposed “femininity.”
It’s a shame that this mentality is still present in our society. It’s important to encourage women to pursue their dreams and reassure them that it will be worth it longterm. Holding off on your dreams and interests to preserve an image that others have labeled as desirable is damaging to your self-esteem, and in some cases, your health. When athletes are training and eating properly, they’re quite healthy and great role models for young women. Being too muscular is as unhealthy as being too thin, so balance and moderation are important.
Olympic gold medal winner Jessica Ennis has been speaking out about the importance of supporting women who have an interest in sports. Ennis was worried about becoming too muscular when she started, but a supportive coach who encouraged her to follow her dreams, and reassured her that her dedication would pay off when she wins a gold medal, helped get her on the path she envisioned for herself. Ennis is now encouraging other women to pursue sports, saying that, “Strong can look good. Sport is a good thing.”
We must remind women, and society in general, that beauty is subjective and comes in all forms. The best thing you can do for yourself is take care of your body and mind, and pursue your interests by setting goals that you would like to achieve. This will ultimately be what makes you feel happiest and most fulfilled, and the right people will appreciate and applaud you.
Read more about Ennis’ views about women in sports on the dailymail: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2238795/Olympic-star-Jessica-Ennis-Girls-athletes-worry-muscly.html
