Breaking Stereotypes: Challenging Gender Norms in Fitness and Wellness | Get involved with Student Life

Have you ever felt the societal nudge to trade in a mouth-watering burger for a plate of greens, all because of your gender? Now, don't get me wrong; salads are fantastic, but should our food choices really be dictated by age-old stereotypes?

Fitness – a term as diverse as the people it encompasses. Growing up, my goal was to be fit. But did I truly comprehend the essence of fitness, or was I unknowingly influenced by societal expectations? 

Let me invite you into my world; it's essential for understanding the journey I'm about to share. As a woman, my first identity is shaped by my faith – I am a Muslim. Embracing Islam brings the commitment to modest dressing, and this aspect of my identity has often been a stumbling block in my fitness journey.

Navigating fitness spaces, especially at Seneca, led me to adopt a cover-up approach. Faced with reconciling my faith with fitness, I approached the Seneca Recreation facilities, advocating for women-only timings. The response? A resounding affirmation, highlighting the importance of creating inclusive spaces that respect diverse identities. If you are a woman looking for timings dedicated to us, check @senecanewnhamrec on Instagram for more details.

The underlying idea is straightforward: fitness is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It's about challenging societal norms that dictate what women should eat or how they should dress while pursuing wellness. It's about breaking free from stereotypes that limit our choices and embracing a holistic view of health.

Next time you contemplate swapping that burger for a salad to fit societal expectations, pause and reconsider. Fitness is a deeply personal journey, and breaking stereotypes requires embracing our individuality. It's about challenging gender norms and reshaping the narrative surrounding women's health.

Moreover, it's about fostering inclusivity in fitness spaces. The path to breaking stereotypes involves creating environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds feel not only welcome but empowered to pursue their unique wellness journeys.

So, whether you're hitting the gym in a hijab or breaking a sweat in your distinctive way – own it! The revolution in fitness begins with each of us embracing diversity and encouraging everyone to define their path to wellness.

In conclusion, breaking stereotypes in fitness goes beyond personal choices; it's a call for a more inclusive and understanding approach to health. Let's champion diverse narratives, challenge outdated norms, and collectively redefine what it means to be fit and well.

Author: Maryam