The Backdrop

Even if we look back to the 1970s and 80s, while women had already been making significant progress in other fields, bodybuilding was not considered as one of the most desirable things for any woman to follow. The world was going through a fitness revolution, but it was still generally unheard of about a woman joining a gym. They could pursue their fitness program and training but that was mainly limited to some basic freehand training like aerobics. Pulling weights was still not in. A bit of walking and jogging was all that women were expected to undertake.

The Change in Attitude

It was during the 1990s that a change could be seen in the attitude towards women bodybuilders and the sport of Women Bodybuilding. With more and more women joining the sport and with increased number of events, shows and competitions being thrown open to them, women bodybuilders started to gain wider recognition for their skills and achievements. Success breeds success and with each successful event being hosted there was an increased popularity for the sport. The women athletes were now showered with the same respect and adoration which until now was the sole prerogative of the men.

Why should Women be in Bodybuilding?

The answer to this question is simple - "why not?" While many thought that a woman’s body is far too feeble to go through the rigorous toil of the gym, such beliefs were baseless. It must be understood that when men start bodybuilding, not all of them have a similar physique. Every individual is different and that warrants that they should have different training programs. But that does not mean that only those who are naturally strong can or should try bodybuilding. It is a sport where everyone can join in and put in their best.

While one accepts that a woman’s body in comparison to a man’s body will generally be less strong, yet it does not take away from the fact that any individual who invests time in bodybuilding will gain immensely. There are a few benefits of bodybuilding that are universal, no matter whether you are a man or a woman.

When you are bodybuilding you are bound to get fitter and stronger. Your muscles will be able to withstand more stress and you joints will get more flexible. Overall you will be a far healthier person than you were before you started bodybuilding.

Bodybuilding also allows you to have a much better lifestyle. Although it might be a bit difficult during the initial stages, once you get used to the lifestyle of a bodybuilder, with good dietary habits, regular sleeping hours and an overall improved way of living, you stand to gain a lot.

Beyond the obvious physical gains, you will also feel more comfortable, much more self-assured. You will be able to focus on your job better, and your performance will go up a notch. Now that is a whole lot of advantage for trying bodybuilding.

Why do Women Stay Away?

Many women, even now, stay away from bodybuilding because they fear that they will bulk up. They are afraid that they will develop massive muscles if they train. They must know that the women they see with big muscles have put in years of training before they achieved the results. They wanted those muscles and they worked towards getting them. They prove that women can be as good as men in bodybuilding.

But Bodybuilding is beyond big muscles. The kind of muscles you develop depends on the routine you follow. If you are not interested in bulking up then arrange your routine accordingly. You will get leaner muscles and no extra fat. But at the same time you will stay away from being huge.