The Physically Strong Female: Gross or Goddess?

[GlennStorm]

Most people have a pretty clear idea of what they think of a woman with muscles. "Eeewwww, gross" is a common phrase uttered upon seeing a picture like the one here:

I completely understand...

However, I think we dismiss strong women too quickly. I think that a woman with muscle should be applauded and appreciated. Not only is she being forced to buck the weight of society's stereotypes off her broad shoulders, but she is striving to achieve something special, something rare: combining beauty and strength.

Traditionally, a man is strong and a woman is beautiful. They are the defining physical traits of both sexes and rarely ever do those traits get mixed up. Yet our hypothetical heavy lifting female friend is trying to do both, on the path to becoming both strong and beautiful. The best of both sexes in one package - the ultimate creation!

I can already hear you muttering...steroids...and yes it's true that many of the over-committed bodybuilding women come unstuck here. They spend too long on the juice, so hellbent on more muscle that they surrender their beauty, as they lose hair, grow deep voices etc. I don't think those women are goddesses - they have wasted their beauty. I still maintain however, that those women who maximise their strength while retaining their beauty are the ideal human beings, as they combine the best physical traits of both genders, see the lovely Anne-Marie Lasserre below:

Trouble is...not many people seem to agree. Women are discouraged from following the path of the goddess because they are worried about the negative reactions they will get from their family and their peers and from men. The traditional perception is that men in particular find women with muscles repulsive. It holds true sometimes, sure, but I believe that quite often that perception is merely the few loud men claiming to be the voice of the many. There are many reasons a man might refuse to admit that he likes strong women (perhaps another mytake in the works...), but let's just say that there are a lot more admirers of strong women out there than you think.

Thankfully the wheel is slowly turning. Instagram is full of gym selfies of women proud of their fit bodies. It's also full of supportive comments of those selfies - from both sexes. We are slowly becoming more accepting.

So I'm asking you today to consider rethinking your view of physically strong women. Give them a chance. If you know one, support their journey. If you are one or want to become one, I fully endorse your choice and I hope everyone in your life does to. Don't be afraid to tell your friends that you find them attractive. You don't have to hide anymore. Let's all appreciate the goddess.

[ShepherdOfFire99]

I lift, have been for a long time. Im not extremely bulky as I dont take any steriods but I am toned and quite strong for my height and weight, and look that way. I look quite a bit like the last picture just a tad smaller. I've had abs since high school and I distinctly remember once in PE a girl friend of mine hugged me and was like, "holy shit, I can feel your abs through your shirt!" And a bunch of guys came up and asked to see. I lifted up my shirt a little and immediately got comments that I'm too masculine and to get back into the kitchen (to which I replied, "well where do you think I've made these abs" lol). I played it off as okay in the situation but.. Still, it hurt. :( a lot.
I started lifting because I was severely depressed and had binge eating disorder. I had been abused most of my childhood and lifting was one of few things that took it away and helped me finally see in color... And his response was that I should just get back in the kitchen... Still hurts to this day that people dare say to me that I can't be strong or happy because of gender.
I really appreciate this post. Lifting is what makes me happy.. And I'm not ever going to stop. 💪

[GlennStorm]

Great comment! Nah, definitely don't ever stop :) Not because of something stupid a bunch of guys said anyway..

[hotstuffSRD]

You look cute so it won't make a difference if you're masculine or not :P

[ConsultantIsBack]

upvotes for fitness

[Battooot]

look, people have different views and different tastes. most women are so complicated and WRONG about their opinion on other women especially when it comes to muscles. Most women dont workout just because they think that if they did they'l get more manly and lose femininity. They don't realize that if they workout the right way (without steroids n stuff) they would look 10 times better.

Like i said before some men will like it and some won't. the chances are: guys who don't play sports or workout will most likely not like women with defined body. But guys who do play sports and workout (like myself) will LOVE women who workout. Honestly, i don't care what the girls said here and as a MAN i disagree with every single thing they said. Those women up there in the pics i actually find them really hot and even turned me on. I especially like the legs and the thighs of the lady in the 2nd picture, i love women with nicely defined and shaped legs. I won't lie i even had a slight boner.

[Battooot]

FUUKK i didn't notice she's Inactive i wouldn't have bothered to type all that >.<..

[cindibb]

Don't every stop, my hubby got me started I caught the bug, like you I don't consider myself overly bulky i'm big because that's the way I am naturally, I'm sorta like a fireplug of sorts. Building your body builds not only your muscles but your brain, your emotions and especially your confidence, I look at a barbell and I grow. LOL I love it. I get stares but young guys should take notice, especially you high schoolers, the girls are coming into the gym and they ain't taken no prisoners, we have HS girls come in want to get strong and as the ole saying goes form follows function and believe you me some of these high schoolers are not wasting time.

[GlennStorm]

@Battooot great comment dude. I think you're onto it. Women who already are fit or lift weights aren't too worried - they know the truth, but convincing a non-lifting, unfit female to lift in the first place is often difficult because they are scared of what will happen and that they'll turn into a she-male. That's sad.
Glad you like the pics - seems you have good taste :)

[BlueWalker]

What an inspiring story. "Get back into the kitchen"... wow. What, are we still living in the stone age? 😒 Women have it so rough in so many ways. Can't be seen as beautiful one way or the other. It's sad. But for you to overcome your struggles to find something that brings value into your life is wonderful. You should be congratulated for persevering. Me personally, I find strong, muscular women to be very attractive. In my opinion, a woman has the right to be whatever she damn well pleases. It's just sad that our culture puts so much pressure on women to look a certain way within a very narrow scope. Sadly, that affects women's self-esteem and poisons men's view of what women "should" and "shouldn't" look like. Keep your head up high and live life for YOU. I've got nothing but mad respect for you. 👍

[admles]

I like a strong, athletic woman, but when they start getting to the bigger, pro-level bodybuilder state, when they've been abusing steroids (and yes, every pro athlete is using in every sport), and they get too masculine in the facial features, that I don't like.

However, I do respect the hard work and dedication it takes to get there - no matter what drugs you use, you won't get anywhere without hard work and strict dieting.

The first picture you posted isn't attractive to me, the second and third ones are, however.

[cindibb]

I am a happily married woman who is vastly more muscular and stronger than my hubby. I'm not going to say he's 100% on board with the results but it was his idea to begin with, I just ran with it. I guess you could say I caught the bug. Now as far as a goddess is concerned, in his mind I fit that description in public NO WAY, I would never dress to make myself obvious but to the trained eye or those in the game, they can spot a female who wears muscles regardless of what we wear. I think the goddess mentality way of thinking screws it up negatively. Most people that I run into, not literally, who have an eye, never speak negatively and I make sure my hubby doesn't hear anything that could be read wrong. There is a contingent of followers who consider a muscular strong woman an alpha woman, I'm not sure I agree with that. My man struggles with his image. I do not flaunt it accept for him only. He's never complained, which is how it should be. He is intimidated but not because I intimidate him. Just my take, I'd like to hear from other women and not so much from the men on this issue?

[GlennStorm]

Thanks for sharing. I suppose it would make for very interesting relationships and gender roles if you pair a stronger woman with a weaker guy. I hope your husband doesn't struggle too badly with it - that would be a real negative. But I'm glad he got you into the weights, and you love it. Spread the word :)

[cindibb]

Thanks, I hear you load and clear, it really is a different relationship, I do not advocate a reverse male/female roll model thingy, nor without really thinking it through. Who would've guessed a wife could out muscle her hubby or be significantly stronger without becoming a terror when she didn't get her way? Oh I can have my way, there really isn't much defense for him to stop me if I pressed it, but I don't. Why should I, but I will say this, seeing your man blush is priceless especially in private, I would never dare antagonize him in public, not even if he gave me reason too. But I have warned him, he's come close on occasion unadvisedly, I hold back and talk about it privately with him, just to warn him not poke fun at him. He knows his place and his limits, why do you think I bought a pickle jar opener? Didn't want to embarrass him in front of the kids. hehe

[GlennStorm]

Yes I imagine you would want to think it through and have two people that were very comfortable in their own skins. Judgment from others must be pretty common too. Hey and look after your man OK? :)

[GlennStorm]

I'm interested in hearing more about how you and your husband relate to each other and how it all began. Message me?

[cindibb]

How can I message you "my Take Owner. I can't find a link?

[GlennStorm]

Click on my username at the top of the mytake and that will take you to my profile page. Then you should see on the right of the profile there is a message button

[cindibb]

I did but I don't have enough user points. so what do you suggest. Please understand I am married I am not seeking, looking or considering. I'l exchange because most people are confused and I've been in it and lived it, and no it's not easy for my hubby, he struggles with it

[GlennStorm]

Email is the only option I suppose, you can send one to me at yahoo dot com, address: musclecompare Don't worry I'm not looking for anyone, I've already found someone. I just want to learn.

[TayTay21]

I want to be an alpha female physically, though I don't mean in a domineering way towards men. To me, alpha females are the ones who are powerful and badass without necessarily being overt about it. My goal is to one day look like Juliana Malacarne (we're the same height), though not quite as big as she is now.

[cindibb]

@TayTay21 You have your head screwed on right hun. It's not easy to be non-aggressive and be an Alpha-woman. You have picked a great roll model in Juliana Malacarne, if I can suggest one thing. Do not be afraid of your body. I used to personally train, I had athletic girls who had that Alpha-woman thing going on in them but being they were more on the muscular side from the get go I had to keep reminding them DO NOT FEAR what you are capable of. You don't have to go to far, but if you do don't worry, I'm a big girl I'm married, my man knows and appreciates my Alpha-side. He better I busted ass just for him and will maybe a little for myself. Don't be afraid of being who you are. Muscles or no muscles, just be cool.

[cruelcold]

Why does he blush in private, if I dare?

[cindibb]

@cruelcold Oh you know he blushes in private, I'm cool with him in public or in front of the kids. But in private HE BLUSHES, I can't say, I don't appreciate that blush but as it goes, a blush is a rush. I just have fun with it. Besides this is what he wished for, not sure he really wanted what he got, but the blush says it all. Thanks for replying.

[cruelcold]

He's so happy and embarrassed at the same time! xD

Do you mind being dominant over him in the slightest or?

[redeyemindtricks]

"So I'm asking you today to consider rethinking your view of physically strong women."

LOLwut?

I'm a fitness competitor. I know hundreds and hundreds of these women. EVERY SINGLE ONE of them has a line of potential suitors all the way out the door, around the block, round the corner, down the street, round the next block.

Every single one.

I mean, OK, you are right that there is some residual hate, and misinformation, mostly spread by the Barbie contingent. That? Sure. Every week I meet at least someone who still thinks that girls will look like pic #1 if they try to pick up a dumbbell that's not 2lbs of pink silicone. (As if.)

But...

BUT...

You seem to be thinking, WITH A STRAIGHT FACE, that there are actually women who look like pics #2 and #3 who actually want for male companionship.

!!!

Dude!

The fuck planet you LIVE on, homeslice? Like, srsly? LOL

[GlennStorm]

Thanks for your overly argumentative comment, but I think we are not far apart. Here's the thing - you know the secret! You can speak from a position of knowledge because you're in the industry, and you know that lots of guys go crazy over fit, strong women. As you say, there are multiple willing guys for any girl who is looking. As it should be! So I'm writing as much to the girls as the guys - more in fact. Girls need to know that if they build some muscle, guys will swarm to them and think they are incredible. And that's not weird, or fetish material. It's just appreciating amazing women.

[redeyemindtricks]

Not argumentative. Think "tongue-in-cheek longshoreman delivery". I have 4 brothers and we are the bluest of the blue collar. Hard to transmit through teh interwebz.

The things yr saying are... not incorrect, of course. I just think we differ on whether there are any women ages 18-50 in major metros who are not already well aware of everything yr saying.
You say there are, I say there aren't. And I'm bout that #gymlife.

That's all.

Really, I am pretty much the exact opposite of a hater.

[GlennStorm]

haha fair enough :)

[redeyemindtricks]

xx (;

[cindibb]

@2redeyemindtricks finally a chick with a brain and feelings in her head! You go girl, I'm right behind you. I'm not a fitness woman, I am married so the dynamic is different but had not my hubby got my arse in the gym I'd still be on the scale sucking down some crazied new years resolution diet. That was almost 8 years ago. I was afraid at first, curious a little but once the bug bit I was off to the races. Yeah my hubby loves it personally, I have to watch what I wear in public, we both know our limits, he can be jealous because I have stamina he tries, as for interest is concerned. Yeah i get the whispers, that's the good part, I get noticed and that makes my hubby uneasy or on his toes. not sure which but you go girl and take no prisoners. Guys better wake up and that goes for hubbies too. lol

[cindibb]

YES, you need to talk with hubby, get it through his thick head he doesn't need to be anxious. I'm gentle, I wouldn't harm a fly, just don't give me reason too. hehe what a great day. thanks guy you seem to get it.

[cruelcold]

What are you asking guys to wake up to again? The fact that muscle girls exist?

95% of women are still much weaker than men in general you know... so unless the number grows, I don't see anybody taking female muscle as normal

[Anonymous]

You can definitely have too much of a good thing and that's for EITHER gender. Most women don't care for excessively muscled men either. The thing about it is women and men that go the extreme fitness route and have muscles practically popping out of their eyeballs aren't doing it for the opposite gender. I don't even think that would come up dead last on their top 5 reasons.

I don't know where you got half of the ideas you threw out there in your take. Having a fit body is universally attractive and pretty much everyone knows that. Most women who say they prefer having a "soft" body just aren't willing to put in the work needed for a firm body, it certainly isn't because they think that men will cringe at the sight of a well developed bicep.

[GlennStorm]

You're correct: the extreme fitness route is often a pretty selfish one. They are doing it for themselves to look a certain way, not to impress anyone. Also true: being fit is a universally attractive thing. I just find it funny how people can admire fit bodies, but cringe at overly fit bodies. Doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me. I understand the steroid use/extreme dietting etc. is bad argument (and agree with it - that's not beauty), but any combination of strength/muscularity that doesn't go to that steroid extreme should be more greatly accepted in my view.

[Opinion Owner]

Because the key word is OVERLY fit. If something is excessive or too much, it's no longer desirable. Biologically women need a higher percentage of body fat than men to be healthy. A woman with a ridiculously low body fat percentage (aka a woman who is extremely fit) gives off very masculine vibes, as a woman isn't biologically supposed to look like she has such a lack of body fat. So it shouldn't be a shocker that women like that aren't generally seen as attractive.

[cindibb]

acceptance, behavior, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Some like it this way that way over easy sunny side up. But at the end of the day run with the way your designed, don't run premium if you car runs on regular, that's the manufacturers best suggestion. Be careful, there are a lot of regulated and unregulated hype, and I'm sorry everybody needs to reel it in, bigger, faster, stronger doesn't always apply there are limits for reasons. Chemical dependence is a much abused world, addiction is worse and bad habit never go detected and bad habits were not always bad until the went radical. Sound familiar?

[lilac_flowers]

Look I've spent my youth training, I was fit, but never bulky. And I competed on a national level in MA. I just didn't have the physical structure and the hormones to cause such muscle growth. My body shaped up, but never bulked up.
I quit and my body quickly went down to simple lean.

Women you post are either on steroids, or have lots of male hormones. Without those things, you can't possibly grow this big. Either way, they don't reflect what a feminine average is and it's what turns off men. It's just biological wiring. This body is the equivalent of "man face".

Same way women see very short, scrawny, feminine looking and acting guys and find them unattractive.

[cindibb]

lilac_flowers, finally a sane reply and so young. You've been there you've seen it, I know it's impossible for a woman to build the mass a man builds, simply because of testosterone in the system naturally. I personally have to be very careful what I take in supplements, there are so many SSRI substitutes that block estrogen, a female hormone necessary to maintain what we classify as feminine, although that doesn't define feminine, the levels of test and estro are different in everybody. I for example have low estrogen levels naturally so for me exercise releases what some would consider a than less feminine look. So all of us need to find a level that works but if we continue down this drug path of blocking certain natural hormones we may see a 250 lb. woman call out her competition across gender lines and bury him on a stage. There are women who've been in this game for decades over 50 years of age barely 5' tall with 19' biceps, how many men that size with arms that big? Maybe 2-5?

[Nuqood]

Every woman you posted is on steroids. When you mention a fit bird, this is what most people think:

allstarhealthfitness.com/.../...odels-female-2.jpg

Not:
cf.girlsaskguys.com/.../...7-812c-947de4bc02d0.jpg

You'd be hard pressed to find men who find the women you've posted to be attractive, in fact, I'd wager the only type of guys that like women like you've posted are those extremely submissive, insecure men who get off on being dominated like a little bitch.

[GlennStorm]

Yep, Danielle Gardner is probably on steroids. That's a difficult argument, where I personally think a woman can boost her muscle building with steroids, but if she is a mid-long term user... no - she'll screw herself up, lose her beauty and that's a waste. And yes, these women are not what most people think of when fit comes to mind. I think society is happily accepting that fit = sexy. But muscular = sexy? Not so much... I'm saying that's a shame.
But I have to disagree for the last part: we've already found some guys who like the women I've posted. There are some who've commented below you. @redeyemindtricks has already posted "EVERY SINGLE ONE of them has a line of potential suitors all the way out the door" I believe that more men like these girls than you think, and that even more would if there wasn't such a stigma about it.

[Nuqood]

Why is it a shame that women who look like men aren't seen as beautiful by the majority of heterosexual men? We're sexually dimorphic for a reason. I don't doubt that there's lots of men who are into the steroid look, that's bound to happen when there's 3.5 billion men on the planet. All I'm saying is that you won't see a hyper-masculine man going for that type of chick unless he too is a mass freak, and at point they're just a bodybuilding couple. The average man isn't going to find these chicks hot and would probably only fuck one on a dare, and I have a feeling that the line of suitors that redeye is talking about doesn't extend past her own social circle of people in the fitness industry/emasculated men who like to be dominated (which isn't the average man).

[Nuqood]

by the way she 100% is on steroids. Women cannot get to that size without steroids; Her arms look like the're in the 15" to 16" range, and her back is proper massive for her frame (plus her calves are huge).

[GlennStorm]

I think it's a shame because we are so afraid of steroid women, that a woman with noticeable muscles is quickly accused of using steroids or looking like a man. Serena Williams for example. She has a kinda weird curvy, muscly body but just look at her face and you see Serena's an attractive woman - calling her a man just cause you see a bicep on her is harsh. I think that society's 'line' of steroid abuser and gross tranny woman is much too strict right now, and I think we could all be more tolerant.
I also think it's a shame because some women are scared of lifting any weight because of the fear of being labelled a freak. Other less loved body types: fat people, particularly skinny men, flat chested women - they aren't trying to be healthy. But weightlifting women are being discouraged from healthy habits. That's a shame too.

[GlennStorm]

I knew the pictures were the trickiest part of this article haha Who to choose for my examples of beauty and strength? There are a million #fitfam members of intsagram I could have picked, but I guess I wanted to make a splash... I think these last two women I picked are still beautiful females, you think they are steroid tainted and are not beautiful females. That's fine, I understand. We all have different standards.

[Nuqood]

Dude.. women cannot, and I repeat CANNOT get as big as these chicks without steroids. There's a reason musculature and raw power are seen as masculine traits, and it's because women are completely incapable of achieving any of those thing naturally. This isn't a matter of perspective, this is a matter of biology, and all of those women are 100% on steroids. There is no debating this, and nobody is 'afraid' of a female with muscles, they are repulsed.

You also seem to think that a woman picking up weights will achieve the bodies of the women you've posted. It's impossible without a steroid compound, and without sounding like too much of a tool, I'd wager that the average woman could barely put 6 pounds of muscle on in a year of strict lifting and dieting on a bulk diet. You grossly overestimate the potential of women, dude, and the side-effect of that is that you're confused about a simple concept. We are sexually dimorphic; Women are not supposed to nor can they look like this natty.

[GlennStorm]

I pretty much agree. Although there are certainly some females that can and do build muscle naturally. Usually it's lower body, but still, some can.

[cindibb]

Wow nugood, you are so aware for all these men out here, thanks for letting them on the secret, ((((summissive)))) grown boys, "extremely" I'll let my wimpy hubby know what the deal is. LOL Oh I"m sure there i a grain of truth in your judgment. But "hard pressed" to find what? You are so close minded, yeah I know there are helpless schmoes out there, just go to a cam site, it really is habit forming until it becomes bad habit forming and like in the song Hotel California "you can check out but you can never leave" Yeah ain't it a bitch? It does suck I know because I am strong assertive and yes muscular beyond my years.

[Nuqood]

https://i.imgur.com/jV89jBd.png

I think it's trying to communicate with me.. does anyone have a translator?

[cindibb]

Absolutely we can

[TayTay21]

Strong women are amazing! I've been lifting weights consistently since I started HS cheer at age 15. We had to lift to get stronger and avoid injury. Plus, it helps to look good in your uniform. As my coach said, all girls need to lift weights because we're naturally weaker than boys to begin with.

[cindibb]

Naturally weaker doesn't mean always weaker. I've seen some pretty wimpy boys trying to be men when they are just wimpy little boys in a big man body. You are on the right track. Don't let muscles scare you off.

[GlennStorm]

That's great to hear! It seems a lot of girls high school sports teams are training hard, using the gyms, getting into the weight lifting. That will pay off in the long run as more and more girls realise there is nothing to fear, guys realise girls who lift weights aren't scary, and a new generation of fit and strong women will arise. Everyone wins :) Good luck with the Juliana Malacarne goal - if you can pull that off, you will look amazing :)

[TayTay21]

@cindibb I know, I'm trying to improve to the point that I'm strong. I'm naturally thin and have always envied women with curves.

[cindibb]

What ever you want to make it depends on YOU. You can take it as far as your body can handle it. It's not about to much or not enough. Being who makes you comfortable is what makes you happy, if others don't like it will there isn't much you can do about it. But you can do something about what makes you feel good. I love being muscular and strong. When I began I didn't plan on being muscular but now that I am I love it.

[vishna]

I think one of the best ways to set up a lot of 'backlash' on a MyTake is to not begin with defining your terminology. Ex) strong and goddess.
These women don't look like goddesses to me. They look unnatural.
They don't look strong, they look unnatural. A woman can be strong and not have huge bulging muscles.
If you like women with "broad shoulders" then good for you, I'm giving you no flack at all. And I think it's nice you're trying to give some love to the muscular women out there.

[GlennStorm]

Well I'm trying to fly the flag a little, yep. I agree with you, goddess is a strong word and I guess I was just trying for impact. I could have posted pics of women with smaller muscles too. It's just to make people think, and I'm glad it has.

[vishna]

It's your MyTake, and in the end you did make people think. I think it's kinda disrespectful people say these women looks gross. That's a strong word too. :/

[cindibb]

I agree with you sorta vishna, I think MyTake begins with the premise Strong & Goddess and that is NOT what it's all about, it's not even about acceptance. As for natural and unnatural are concerned, I have gym rat friends who pass me up when it comes to muscularity and size, I can pretty much hold my own in the strength department, after saying that, muscular women or for that matter muscular men don't happen generally by nature. I was what you would call "big boned" shy, I feared being to much anything. But rest assured for a woman to enter the arena and compete against a man it can't happen naturally but it can happen. If I got on the blockers and boutique GH formula I could stand with the guys on stage. I can hear the nay-sayers and dreamers PROVE IT? Why? All of bodybuilding is a racket for both men and women. Men have been at it longer, but make no mistake, women can't get in that condition without pushing heavy iron and taking secret formulas and not pay a price.

[Anonymous]

Well, I appreciate the effort they put to this. And of they like it, good for them. However "goddess" is simply your opinion, and I personally would hate to look like that.

[GlennStorm]

That's fair. I don't think it's a look for everyone, I just think it's a look that shouldn't be feared or discriminated against. Thanks for reading :)

[Opinion Owner]

It shouldn't. You are right.

[cindibb]

"If you hate to look like this" don't worry you won't. You think this happens by accident or by laying around consuming junk all day. We bust arse becaus it makes us feel good about accomplishing something, the muscle are new experience the strength is respected, why not, because you are afraid you might turn guys off? Hey if I weren't married I'd have a line standing out m door begging for the experience, is she? can she? Oh yes we can and we will ask my hubby. LOL have a great day and do something other than look pretty.

[Opinion Owner]

Turn of guys? When did I ever say I would hate to look like this because of guys? I would hate to look like this because I don't think it looks good. I doubt it feels good. I don't get any pleasure by lifting weights and admiring my huge muscles. No, I like dancing, swimming and yes sometimes eating junk. Be proud of your hobby and body but don't come here shame other people for not admiring this look. How pathetic

[Anonymous]

Just pointing out having big swollen muscles does not make you a lot stronger. You are stronger than you would be if you did not exercise at all but it's only one of many factors which give you strength and not the most important one. Weightlifters do not look like bodybuilders.

[GlennStorm]

Yep that's true. Olympic weightlifting women have some muscles, but they aren't as pronounced as someone who is specifically lifting for a certain look or a figure/bodybuilding competition. Also, the rise of Crossfit has meant that more people are comfortable being/seeing a strong woman, but a muscular woman is still pretty taboo.

[XxLumierexX]

sorry but i think muscles look totally gross and manly on women, I'm naturally really thin so people assume i work out or something despite not having obvious muscles but in reality, I'm scared of working out to the point where i actually start having muscles ewww, i never want them, regardless of what others say. In fact, most people I have known ENCOURAGE me to have muscles but i just dont care, i think they are manly and totally not feminine...

and tbh even MEN with those muscles look totally gross to me!!! dont get me wrong, i LOVE strong guys, but tbh those body builder body types are disgusting for me to look at, but even more when its a woman, it makes them look like men!

with that being said, its just what I personally think, people should do whatever they want haha

[GlennStorm]

Well you're open minded at least :) And you don't dig muscles on either sex, that's cool too. Everyone has their opinions and tastes. Most people encourage you do grow some muscle? That's interesting. Are they guys or girls encouraging you?

[XxLumierexX]

Mostly guys in their early 20s for some reason o_O For example, I know this guy but he's not really my friend although we've spoken a couple of times and he tells me i should "bulk up" because 'cause physically Im REALLY weak and he says i should because for him personally, he claims to really be annoyed with the fact he has to defend his girlfriend sometimes against other people that try to physically assault her or something, that has happened to his girlfriend like twice and he says that he's so glad she's okay but that "the worst part" was that he had to help her !!! i think thats cute, though! I'm not that worried though, I'm EXTREMELY paranoid, Id never leave the house by myself to go very far, especially at night!!! I dont think anyone should go out at night O_O

anyway, not many people openly claim to not want to be strong, but i dont want to, i like myself the way i am already, and idc about what 20 year old guys think^_^

[GlennStorm]

He can't be bothered defending his girlfriend? I mean sure it's safer if you can defend yourself... but wow it's hardly a great attitude from him.
I guess I'd never really thought about the reverse too much until you said that you didn't want to be strong, and people bugged you about it.
One thing that might be happening is a lot more people know claim to know about health, and happily deal out advice whether the other person wants it or not. They see a skinny girl and say oh 'you should bulk up a little', or they see a fat girl and say 'try eating clean'.
All the best not being strong! Whatever floats your boat I say :)

[cindibb]

Thank you XxLumierrexX your point is will taken, I happen to agree, it is a personal choice, at least we got that straight between us. I never was blessed with that "naturally skinny" body which according to what you suggest is feminine right, no wonder the competition thinks you should put on some weight, they're probably jealous? Not that many skinny people in America, you've heard we are the most Obese yet most malnourished people on the planet yet we have a problem with too much muscle except for the boys, right? You say yourself you don't like muscle bound guys, ME TOO. Every body is seeking fair and balance nobody got more than others and if that can't be agreed upon right a laws that makes every body equal, or at least until someone wants something or even more, here we go again. Legislating fair and balanced so nobody get's left behind in a fat world.

[cindibb]

Opinion Owner: you should stay in doors, especially late at night and if you don't want to defend yourself because you are weak, at least get a carry permit and learn how to be responsible with a weapon so you can defend yourself. As for boy friends being bugged about defending girl friends. What would you think of women who can defend their boyfriends or husbands? I do and I have, when you are strong @ the physical level, you build self confidence self esteem a bully focuses on that, that doesn't happen by accident or nature, you got to build that into yourself, the bully can feel it you don't have to flex those big muscles to make your point. Most guys especially my husband can feel it around me, it's an unspoken communication. As an assertive woman and wife I am proud to be self made, strong like a bull, if a guy wanted to accost me or my hubby he better bring a knife or gun cause he will not escape without limping for a week! get yo self some respect girl your 16.

[XxLumierexX]

@cindibb Actually, you don't need to be intimidating that way to "get some respect"^_^ I've built my self confidence and self esteem already, and I think that should be something you have NOT because of superficial reasons like super physical strength, but because it should be something innate; something there with you already, without you actually having to work too hard for it. I love/respect myself not because of any particular reason like "oh i can kick anyone's butt," but just because I DO, I dont NEED a reason!^-^
And I personally don't give a cow if others personally don't respect/like me behind their backs, but when it's simply bothering you constantly then I think they are the ones that should go love themselves, or go suck an egg :^)

[GlennStorm]

Well said :)

[cindibb]

I sent you an email. did you get it?

[cindibb]

I'm not picking on you, I think you are comfortable in your skin, I'm not suggesting you workout or if you don't work out for what ever reasons. If you do workout you have to do it because YOU want to, NOT because you do it for someone else. If you are happy, fine, only you know if you are or NOT. Nobody can take that form you. If you have no desire to build your body any different then DON'T. I'm not a bully, But don't back me up and think I'll just back down and I'm not strong so I can't back down. Actually I"m strong so I can back down. It's much easier to turn your cheek if you the other person knows you don't have too.

[BlueWalker]

I find strong, muscular women to be very attractive, just as long as they are not shooting themselves up with steroids and other growth hormones to attain their physique. Physical attraction is one thing, but health is another. I know the same applies to the the OP, but it still bears repeating. With that said, women from fitness models to heavy weightlifting female bodybuilders are very attractive to me. I am certainly not one for "gender roles". A woman has the right to be whatever she damn well pleases and to look awesome doing it. It's all good.

[GuyAdviceFromGuy]

The first one looks like a cross between Freak Show from Harold and Kumar go to white castle and the red demon from Insidious.

It all depends on how the chick looks, like if she looks like picture 3 and fuck yea I'd hump her lights out. Regardless, muscular chicks have nice tight pussies that grip dick nicely during sex, so that's always a plus

[Anonymous]

It's just not attractive.

I remember my old gym had a regular who must be approaching 50 if not already there. She probably was better looking in her youth, but now she looks overly tanned, her skin looks dried out, and she has ridiculously huge breast implants. She is fairly skinny but has muscles popping everywhere. I can't for the life of me understand why this woman gets so much attention from male gymgoers. My only guess is they're lonely men and have lowered standards so to them any woman who's not fat and has big boobs is attractive.

[GlennStorm]

That doesn't sound attractive - nope. That's what I mean where a woman can lose her beauty by pushing too hard for muscle. Kinda defeats the purpose in my mind. She is effectively happy to lose what makes her a woman (apart from bolt on boobies). That is NOT what I was hoping to promote.

[techitisJ]

I feel similar. If a woman is using steroids to build that muscle, then she really doesn't look good. But ones who work for it, awesome. They are beautiful, and they are strong.

[GlennStorm]

Thanks for commenting. Hypothetically speaking, do you think it would be a look you would want personally? Or just one you admire for others? I only ask cause it seems like those who admire it often don't actually want to look that way,

[Anonymous]

Oh I respect their effort alright. It is admirable in its own right. I am just not turned on by the results.
If a girl wants to be able to take me in wrestling I'd rather she learned some martial arts. It isn't even that I have a problem with the potential of a girl being stronger its just not at all sexually attractive. To me at least.

Now obviously some muscle can be fine. Heck, a lot of muscle can be fine if its put at the right spots. I just don't want to be dating the hulk.

Note: I am no racist and I have no problem with green people. Be nice to me all you pro-alien PC people.

[godfatherfan]

Not a chance. It is so gross and disgusting to even look at those women.
If I wanted to be with a guy, I would be gay
one of the best things about a woman is how soft they are. They are the "weaker" sex. That doesn't mean they are weak, just usually weaker then the guy (not always).
why women want to build muscles like this I do not understand. They basically limit themselves to dating muscle bound idiots or other women bodybuilders.

[Transigence]

I dig women with muscle. I think body-builders of either sex are gross looking, but it takes a LOT of muscle to get to that point.

The picture on top is kind-of gross, but the bottom two are smokin' hot to me. So is Serena Williams.

[GlennStorm]

Preach it brother. I too have a lot more tolerance for muscle than most it seems, not to steroid abusing lengths like you say... but I hear ya!

[MeghanL]

Strength building & body-building are 2 different things, & one does not necessarily entail the other.

I work out regularly & I'm pretty strong, but I'm not bulky-muscled.

[GlennStorm]

Yeah they are definitely distinct, and also viewed differently. eg. I think men are more likely to be proud of a strong partner rather than a muscular one. Interesting when they are kinda both the same thing.

[MeghanL]

My boyfriend & I both work out on a regular basis - running, swimming, yoga, & other things. Couples yoga is awesome, in case anyone is wondering! We're both hard-muscled but we're wiry-built, not bulky. I'm 5' 6" & weigh about 115 lbs, he's 6 ft & about 145 lbs, if that gives you an idea.

[GlennStorm]

Wiry built indeed! But that's cool, maybe I should try couples yoga with my girlfriend :) Where's a good place to get ideas for that?

[MeghanL]

A good place for yoga? A yoga studio offering coed sessions, a lot of health clubs offer both coed & gender-separate yoga sessions.

To be clear couples yoga consists of asanas done in pairs. Reenacting the Kama Sutra is not recommended.

[MeghanL]

A lot of books on the subject too. Search-engine couples yoga, you'll find plenty.

[GlennStorm]

haha thanks. Didn't have the karma sutra in mind... not yet anyway! I'll do some digging.

[Anonymous]

I would not find women that muscular attractive though am short and not very muscular myself so am sure they would find me puny. I do see women at the gym lifting weights heavier than I would lift and I admire them for it. I also see some women physically very week that even using a simple hole puncher is too tough for them. I think people need to be more aware of the importance long term of physical strength

[cindibb]

Wow you are brave Anonymous, short puny and willing to admit it. That is a true act of courage on your part, have you ever went up and complemented them for their vast ability to out lift you? You've obviously felt the weirdness in doing something like that, right? Go ahead, most guys would never admit what you admit here. I'm short but I'm no puny and I'm a girl. I oknow I can come off vain, how do you avoid it? You should tell them what the truth is, because there are a lot of younger girls not afraid to push the iron and we may soon be seeing muscle like we never realized, check out cross fit

[Opinion Owner]

@cindibb. I have been tempted been honest, but i guess i might come across as weird. Most people in the gym like doing their own thing. though i'm not a weakling at the sametime, i wouldn't be the most muscular. I should make it more known because i see girls going on these crazy diets and not doing anything about their physicality. One female manager where i work is physically very week and i've often noticed her been intimidated by other women, as i sometimes think she thinks they'll beat her up. Once a colleague compared her to a weed for been so physically weak in front of her and another manager, and what made her look weaker was the fact she couldn't stand up for herself. I do believe having physical strength makes you mentally stronger and a better leader. i think for her if she did built herself up a little in terms of strength she'd come across as a better and stronger manager.

[Dtegesd123]

Like any other body type of woman, it depends on the woman and how much steroids she be taking. The first one reminds me of a axe throwing troll from the first world craft.

[GlennStorm]

First warcraft - nice retro gaming reference dude haha I agree though!