There is no doubt that the world is averse to women only spaces, scholarships and opportunities.
That said, one cannot ignore the context behind which women only events, parties and even schools spring from. Be it safety. Be it the ability to thrive free of the male gaze. The reality is that survival for women often depends on safe spaces and sisterhood.
It is not only in education and career related opportunities that women are beginning to carve out women only spaces. This is also happening in the fitness industry and is often spearheaded by feminist leaning Black women.
Urban Woman Magazine recently asked some women to share their thoughts on women only gyms and if they feel it is necessary.
Read their thoughts below.
YT
I would definitely kill for a women only gym.
I’ve stopped going to the gym since 2021 because of an uncomfortable event. I told a guy to take a video of me doing my squats. I usually do my videos side view so I can access my form. Watched the video only to find out he kept zooming on my ass till you could see my underwear. I felt so violated and never went back. Didn’t finish my subscription nor went back for my gym mat. I didn’t bother taking it up with the management because I doubt they would have addressed it.
As much as I would love and need to go back to the gym, it doesn’t feel like a safe space to me. And I don’t think I ever want to deal with a male PT again. So right now I’m waiting till my husband and I can go to the gym together. 🥹
EE
I’m an advocate for women-only everything but based on my experience, men at the gym haven’t been bad. They avoid me, I avoid them.
Any woman looking to start working out? I’d say start small. Give yourself grace and listen to your body. Just keep moving regardless. Baby steps.
Angel Nduka-Nwosu is a writer, journalist and editor. She moonlights occasionally as a podcaster on As Angel Was Sayin’. Catch her on all socials @asangelwassayin.