Yesterday, I listened to the “Barefoot Training and Tib Training Debate” with Angus Bradley and Atlas Power Shrugged on the Hyperformance Podcast. This might seem completely unrelated, but their conversation highlighted something that I think is more important than the utility of tib raises. After listening to their debate, I got to thinking about the massive difference in fitness content targeted toward men versus women.
I often find myself envious of the men in the fitness space — how they get to debate niche topics like tibialis raises and just generally nerd out about training methodologies. Meanwhile, it feels like we are still trying to convince women to even lift weights, train at high intensities, or have performance goals.
I did a quick Google search on a few more advanced training terms and methodologies yesterday. Things like “resistance profiles,” “conjugate method,” “sprint mechanics,” “lengthened partials,” and “concurrent training.” I was dissappointed (but no surprised) that there is not a single woman featured in the thumbnails of the top results discussing these topics.
Why does this matter? Well, for one, it perpetuates the idea that advanced training methods and performance optimization are the domains of men. Not only does this discourage women from pursuing careers as trainers and coaches, but it also discourages us from engaging in more advanced training methods ourselves. The result is a limited understanding and application of fitness principles amongst women — which sucks for us, to be honest.
The lack of female representation in the higher echelons of fitness discourse is not a reflection of ability or intelligence but a reflection of broader societal biases. The portrayal of fitness for women often emphasizes aesthetic goals, weight loss, and low-intensity workouts. This is a stark contrast to the male fitness sphere, which delves into strength training, performance enhancement, and scientific training methodologies.
Why Representation Matters
Representation matters because it shapes perceptions and opportunities. When women see themselves reflected in advanced fitness discussions, it validates their interest and potential in these areas. It tells young girls and aspiring female trainers that they belong in these conversations and can excel in them.
The current landscape of fitness content often fails to provide women with the same depth of knowledge and encouragement to explore advanced training techniques. This disparity can lead to a lack of confidence and a hesitancy to push physical limits. Moreover, it can create a barrier for women who wish to pursue careers in fitness, as they may feel underqualified or unwelcome in spaces dominated by male discourse.
Steps Forward
Changing this narrative requires a collective effort. Fitness influencers, trainers, and content creators need to make a conscious effort to include and highlight women in discussions about advanced training methods. This involves not only featuring female experts but also encouraging women to participate in these conversations.
As consumers of fitness content, women can also play a role by seeking out and supporting female personal trainers who focus on performance and strength training. Sharing their content and engaging with their work can help amplify their voices and broaden the scope of fitness discussions.
Here are a few of my favorite female personal trainers who focus on performance, strength training and more intellectual fitness discourse:
Alyssa Olenick | Doc Lyss Fitness
Annie Miller | Annie Miller Co
Anna Wishnowsky | Anna Wish Fitness
Katie St.Clair | Katie StClair Fitness
Meghan Sak-Ocbina | Impetus Movement and Rehab