![]() "Harassment is an issue that's more pervasive than just the gym setting. Survey: 7 in 10 who report sexual harassment face retaliation, new Time's Up study finds But the women's-only gym I visited had dumbbells that only went up to 50 pounds and it only had two squat racks with few plate options."Ĭritics have also pointed out that these gyms, despite their many benefits, are only a short-term solution to the harassment and objectification of women. The real problem that needs to be addressed is men's behavior. "Co-ed gyms that I typically go to have a lot of different weights and a lot of different options. Lozier felt there weren't enough heavy weights, and returned to the co-ed gym. "Our mission here is to serve this niche market and largely address women's specific needs, including safety, comfort and a sense of community." 'It's a short-term solution'īut women's-only gyms also have drawbacks. States like Connecticut have ruled against single sex gyms, which violate state laws banning discrimination based on gender, and some gym goers have raised concerns about the limited choice of equipment at certain facilities. "Safety and comfort is our first priority here," says Paige Anderson, a co-owner of Jane's Gym. ![]() Some, like Jane's Gym in Mississippi, provide options like prenatal workout courses or childcare services. More on working out: Don't get TOO much exercise during your coronavirus quarantine. New Year's resolutions about weight loss: Everything you miss when you think weight loss is about willpower Women's-only gyms have attempted to address these concerns by fostering a safe, supportive environment for those who don't want to worry about being harassed. This can trigger eating disorders, lower self esteem and discourage women from exercising regularly. However, "when women experience objectification, like getting comments on their body, leering, ogling or harassment, they tend to feel shame about their body and worry about how it appears to others," Quinn says. According to a 2018 study, regular exercise can decrease stress, anxiety and depression. Women's-only gyms provide 'safety, comfort and a sense of community'ĭiane Quinn, a social psychologist at the University of Connecticut, says feeling comfortable and safe while exercising is crucial, not only for your fitness journey but for your mental health. Premium: What happens when a ‘body positivity’ influencer loses weight? Fans revolt. ![]() ‘They swept it under the rug’: Prominent cheerleading gym disregards sex abuse allegations "It was nice to have your own space where you don't have to worry about men thinking weird things," she says, calling the experience "peaceful."īut despite their growing popularity, these establishments are only addressing one part of a bigger issue, experts say. A recent survey of 900 women found 71% of them changed their workout routine due to a negative encounter such as being watched, being followed around or due to unwanted physical contact.Īs this issue gained attention and went viral over the past year, Lozier, like many others, tried out a women's only gym. "People just stare, and not just a quick glance," Lozier explains. "Most times I'll catch someone sitting behind me, not working out, and just staring directly at my butt." She looks forward to empowering her 61K TikTok followers with daily workout routines and tips for heavy lifting. However, the unwanted stares and attention from men at the gym often caused her discomfort. However, experts caution it doesn’t address the bigger issue: men's behavior.Īs a fitness influencer, Lauren Lozier's life revolves around the gym.Some gym-goers say women's-only gyms provide a safe, supportive environment. ![]() In response to gym harassment and objectification, many women have been trying out single sex gyms. ![]()
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