I am the woman in the freeweights section of the gym

thepinkleprechaun

For those of you who do lift, do you go to the gym 3x a week or more than that?

Hauntinglyfit

For those of you who do lift, do you go to the gym 3x a week or more than that?

I go every other day.
3 times a week is perfectly fine, and will get you great results if you follow a decent routine.

Achrya

I'm usually the only one as well. Minus the gaggle of girls squatting 20 lbs on the smith machine.

Weight shaming? And how do you know that is only 20lbs?

I'm going to guess by looking at the weights, or lack there of? I don't now about you but when I see a five pound plate and a five pound plate, I'm generally about to add that up.

You forgot to consider the weight of the bar... Regardless of that, it seems to me that we shouldn't make remarks about how much or little a woman lifts, just like we shouldn't make remarks or judge her size or weight. Just saying...carry on.

I forgot what? 5+5=...not 20. So I must have been factoring in something else.

MoreBean13

For those of you who do lift, do you go to the gym 3x a week or more than that?

I lift 3x a week generally- Push/Pull/Legs (aka Bench Press/Deadlift/Squat), but I also do other workouts in between- I play soccer 1-2x a week, and swim and/or run and sometimes do yoga when I have extra days. I am active 5-6 days a week usually.

But you can get results with 3x a week for sure, and I would suggest 3x full body to start with, rather than a split.

RaggedyPond

If you can walk with a couple bag of groceries you can do more than 20lbs on the smith machine. Just saiyan.

spider_mark51959

I love this thread. Thanks for the references if/when my wife decides to dive in.

Rosplosion

Thanks, Bean.

Bumping for my FL

suebae32

Before my child and being anemic and having thyroid issues I was very athletic. I was a weight lifter in high school and became all american and I acomplished alot. When I joined the military and my workout consist of streching for a 1\2 hour and Id stay in the free weights. I prefer the free weights bc of my weight lifting experience. Its not for everone bc it requires knowlegde and to be alert. Ive seen ppl fall with a barbell around there necks, ppl drop a weight while doing a lateral press on there heads and pass out and Iv seen girl break her ankle atemping a leg press w/o realizing that the machine alone weighs alot w/o added weight. So hey, free weights looks cool in all but know what your doing to stay healthy and safe

JoRocka

Great post.

But I have to admit. I'm sick of the bewbie pumping "I'm a girl who lifts" "I'm a woman in the weight room" cheer leading

I'm just so over it. I just get really annoyed- I'm not big on gender separation- we are all here to work. I tend to say- "there were only 3 of us last night at the gym"

not- there was only 1 girl and 2 guys at the gym last night.

it's just- I dunno- so forced. I got really annoyed- some guy at my new gym gave me a thumbs up at some point because apparently my workout impressed him.

I wanted to take my head phones out and say- while I appreciate the comment- do you really give EVERYONE in here a thumbs up who does a great work out? Or just good looking girls who are lifting more than you? I go to lift. I'm a person. period. what I do is not special. Just go in- do the work and stop thinking you're **** don't stink. You're like everyone else there lifting.

That being said- (and this was not a dig at the OP or anyone specific- just the general idea I guess) the original post IS excellent and is something that's been repeated over and over in countless threads.

Have a plan
Go in
Do the thing
Lather Rinse Repeat.

fettgeist

I'm not saying I'm hot or anything, but it's really unnerving when someone just stares at you constantly while you're trying to work out. It's happened a few times. I'm an introvert and I really dislike getting any attention directed towards me because it kind of makes me break focus.

So, all you have to do is go in looking like you just rolled out of bed; no make up, messy hair and wear baggy clothes. Tried and true method. They won't look at you then.

It also helps if you've just had an acne breakout

3dogsrunning

Great post.

But I have to admit. I'm sick of the bewbie pumping "I'm a girl who lifts" "I'm a woman in the weight room" cheer leading

I'm just so over it. I just get really annoyed- I'm not big on gender separation- we are all here to work. I tend to say- "there were only 3 of us last night at the gym"

not- there was only 1 girl and 2 guys at the gym last night.

it's just- I dunno- so forced. I got really annoyed- some guy at my new gym gave me a thumbs up at some point because apparently my workout impressed him.

I wanted to take my head phones out and say- while I appreciate the comment- do you really give EVERYONE in here a thumbs up who does a great work out? Or just good looking girls who are lifting more than you? I go to lift. I'm a person. period. what I do is not special. Just go in- do the work and stop thinking you're **** don't stink. You're like everyone else there lifting.

That being said- (and this was not a dig at the OP or anyone specific- just the general idea I guess) the original post IS excellent and is something that's been repeated over and over in countless threads.

Have a plan
Go in
Do the thing
Lather Rinse Repeat.

You know, for me, the gym has never been an issue. I've never experienced any type of separation. It appears you haven't either. And that's great. But our experience isn't everyone else's. Like it or not, it still happens, both real and percieved. I don't think it ever really occured to me how prevelent it was until I joined this forum (I am not just talking this forum, since becoming more aware of it, it is something that I tend to talk to more with other women as well to see how they feel). Look around MFP, there is at least one thread everyday where this issue is brought up (probably more, I'm being conservative). There is a need for this type of thread, whether you need it or not.

Its funny that you don't like the separation, however, you're first thought was the guy was giving you a thumbs up because you were a woman lifting more than him. Maybe he was giving you a thumbs up just because you lifting more than him?

MireyGal76

Great post.

But I have to admit. I'm sick of the bewbie pumping "I'm a girl who lifts" "I'm a woman in the weight room" cheer leading

I'm just so over it. I just get really annoyed- I'm not big on gender separation- we are all here to work. I tend to say- "there were only 3 of us last night at the gym"

not- there was only 1 girl and 2 guys at the gym last night.

it's just- I dunno- so forced. I got really annoyed- some guy at my new gym gave me a thumbs up at some point because apparently my workout impressed him.

I wanted to take my head phones out and say- while I appreciate the comment- do you really give EVERYONE in here a thumbs up who does a great work out? Or just good looking girls who are lifting more than you? I go to lift. I'm a person. period. what I do is not special. Just go in- do the work and stop thinking you're **** don't stink. You're like everyone else there lifting.

That being said- (and this was not a dig at the OP or anyone specific- just the general idea I guess) the original post IS excellent and is something that's been repeated over and over in countless threads.

Have a plan
Go in
Do the thing
Lather Rinse Repeat.

You know, for me, the gym has never been an issue. I've never experienced any type of separation. It appears you haven't either. And that's great. But our experience isn't everyone else's. Like it or not, it still happens, both real and percieved. I don't think it ever really occured to me how prevelent it was until I joined this forum (I am not just talking this forum, since becoming more aware of it, it is something that I tend to talk to more with other women as well to see how they feel). Look around MFP, there is at least one thread everyday where this issue is brought up (probably more, I'm being conservative). There is a need for this type of thread, whether you need it or not.

Its funny that you don't like the separation, however, you're first thought was the guy was giving you a thumbs up because you were a woman lifting more than him. Maybe he was giving you a thumbs up just because you lifting more than him?

truth.

all of what 3 dogs says is true.
I can get your frustration, and think it's great that you have reached that place.
But it's clear a lot of women are not as strong internally and need that extra encouragement to get out of their comfort zone.

MyChocolateDiet

Great post.

But I have to admit. I'm sick of the bewbie pumping "I'm a girl who lifts" "I'm a woman in the weight room" cheer leading

I'm just so over it. I just get really annoyed- I'm not big on gender separation- we are all here to work. I tend to say- "there were only 3 of us last night at the gym"

not- there was only 1 girl and 2 guys at the gym last night.

it's just- I dunno- so forced. I got really annoyed- some guy at my new gym gave me a thumbs up at some point because apparently my workout impressed him.

I wanted to take my head phones out and say- while I appreciate the comment- do you really give EVERYONE in here a thumbs up who does a great work out? Or just good looking girls who are lifting more than you? I go to lift. I'm a person. period. what I do is not special. Just go in- do the work and stop thinking you're **** don't stink. You're like everyone else there lifting.

That being said- (and this was not a dig at the OP or anyone specific- just the general idea I guess) the original post IS excellent and is something that's been repeated over and over in countless threads.

Have a plan
Go in
Do the thing
Lather Rinse Repeat.

You know, for me, the gym has never been an issue. I've never experienced any type of separation. It appears you haven't either. And that's great. But our experience isn't everyone else's. Like it or not, it still happens, both real and percieved. I don't think it ever really occured to me how prevelent it was until I joined this forum (I am not just talking this forum, since becoming more aware of it, it is something that I tend to talk to more with other women as well to see how they feel). Look around MFP, there is at least one thread everyday where this issue is brought up (probably more, I'm being conservative). There is a need for this type of thread, whether you need it or not.

Its funny that you don't like the separation, however, you're first thought was the guy was giving you a thumbs up because you were a woman lifting more than him. Maybe he was giving you a thumbs up just because you lifting more than him?

truth.

all of what 3 dogs says is true.
I can get your frustration, and think it's great that you have reached that place.
But it's clear a lot of women are not as strong internally and need that extra encouragement to get out of their comfort zone.

Well, lately when I found myself in the machines section of my gym and missing the free weights like serious melancholy a man was being kind to me. I am not lifting heavier than ANYONE currently so I took his smile as kindness and welcoming. When I had a gym with free weights to go to a girl would constantly get in my way to do her stretches which I found more insulting as though even my standing directly in front of the weights I intended to use at my size was not a clear hint I meant to use them. I guess I take any positives I get from people positively. B/c there's so little of that around anymore lately.

MyChocolateDiet

I'm not saying I'm hot or anything, but it's really unnerving when someone just stares at you constantly while you're trying to work out. It's happened a few times. I'm an introvert and I really dislike getting any attention directed towards me because it kind of makes me break focus.

So, all you have to do is go in looking like you just rolled out of bed; no make up, messy hair and wear baggy clothes. Tried and true method. They won't look at you then.

It also helps if you've just had an acne breakout

what? no period stained workout wear? you're just pretending.

JoRocka

You know, for me, the gym has never been an issue. I've never experienced any type of separation. It appears you haven't either. And that's great. But our experience isn't everyone else's. Like it or not, it still happens, both real and percieved. I don't think it ever really occured to me how prevelent it was until I joined this forum (I am not just talking this forum, since becoming more aware of it, it is something that I tend to talk to more with other women as well to see how they feel). Look around MFP, there is at least one thread everyday where this issue is brought up (probably more, I'm being conservative). There is a need for this type of thread, whether you need it or not.

Its funny that you don't like the separation, however, you're first thought was the guy was giving you a thumbs up because you were a woman lifting more than him. Maybe he was giving you a thumbs up just because you lifting more than him?

No- I understand the thread- anyone who has lifted long enough and talked to someone who hasn't or is afraid has said those words- I could have written this post- I'm sure I have- in one form or another buried in someone else's thread. I agree- it needed to be said. I just maybe it gets old hearing it constantly.

And I have had a thumbs up for a lift before- it's different. Someone did it to me Sunday- wasn't noticeable at all to me. To be fair-thumbs up guy: I had a pre-set annoyed button the Optimum guy really set my "female" button off the day before. So there was no winning I think. I've been lifting for years- I know what a good job nod/thumb is from someone who isn't impressed by a WOMAN lifting and a thumbs up/nod from someone who is impressed by a lift. I think there is a difference. It's not big- but I guess when you are around long enough you start to see it.

truth.

all of what 3 dogs says is true.
I can get your frustration, and think it's great that you have reached that place.
But it's clear a lot of women are not as strong internally and need that extra encouragement to get out of their comfort zone.

I agree. And I"m not saying the thread is stupid- or it's bad. It's good. I dunno- I just we as PEOPLE were not so affected by other people- as pointed out- even men get intimidated. I have seen that- I talked a guy over to the weight side- he was like I dunno it's a little intimidating- I don't lift like I used to.
I said who cares- you pay to use the gym- if you go in- don't be a d.ick. and do your lifts- re-rack your weights and share when needed- wipe down your sweaty bench no one is going to bother you.

If you pay to use the gym- go use it. Stop letting other people decide your work out for you. You are letting complete strangers who you aren't even interacting with- make a decision for you. And it's just illogical.

Go forth- use your gym- it's a room with equipment in it that you pay for- you have ever right to be there as long as you are mutually respectful.

Go forth
Be fabulous.

that's all.

JoRocka

what? no period stained workout wear? you're just pretending.

crotch sweat ... it's almost as good!!!! Snicker.

delicious_cocktail

what? no period stained workout wear? you're just pretending.

crotch sweat ... it's almost as good!!!! Snicker.

. . . must . . . resist . . . urge . . . to post . . . creepy . . . comment . . .

thepinkleprechaun

For those of you who do lift, do you go to the gym 3x a week or more than that?

I lift 3x a week generally- Push/Pull/Legs (aka Bench Press/Deadlift/Squat), but I also do other workouts in between- I play soccer 1-2x a week, and swim and/or run and sometimes do yoga when I have extra days. I am active 5-6 days a week usually.

But you can get results with 3x a week for sure, and I would suggest 3x full body to start with, rather than a split.

Thank you!

EditGirl77

Thank you for posting this. I get super intimidated in the free weights area. I'll work on that.

HanamiDango

Before my child and being anemic and having thyroid issues I was very athletic. I was a weight lifter in high school and became all american and I acomplished alot. When I joined the military and my workout consist of streching for a 1\2 hour and Id stay in the free weights. I prefer the free weights bc of my weight lifting experience. Its not for everone bc it requires knowlegde and to be alert. Ive seen ppl fall with a barbell around there necks, ppl drop a weight while doing a lateral press on there heads and pass out and Iv seen girl break her ankle atemping a leg press w/o realizing that the machine alone weighs alot w/o added weight. So hey, free weights looks cool in all but know what your doing to stay healthy and safe

This is what I am more worried about. Hurting myself. I think anyone can do it as long know what they are doing though.

Thanks for this post. I will get there, one day.

kristen2713

Love it!! I'm close to outgrowing my weights at home and have a HUGE fear of lifting among the big bad boys!

Saree1902

I REALLY need to get over my weight-o-phobia! Will be doing some background reading and venturing into"that" section of the gym.
Might try on a Sunday morning when it's quiet first, though!
Thanks for this.

JoRocka

Love it!! I'm close to outgrowing my weights at home and have a HUGE fear of lifting among the big bad boys!

can you explain what your fear is? seriously- not being a smart *kitten*

are you afraid they will all turn an point and laugh?
that they are privately snickering to themselves??
that you will drop weight on yourself and everyone will stare?

Once you address those and realize- with the clear exception of the weight dropping issue none of those things really has a huge impact on you if they do those things. Think of the worst thing that could happen. maybe you split your pants? maybe they DO turn and literally point and laugh.

how does that physically affect you? can you keep lifting? head phones on- eyes on the prize?

Unless someone is physically stopping you- most of the hang ups people have are about being self conscious in front of others... in front of others YOU ARE ASSUMING "know more" and there for must be judging you.

So even if- god for bid- someone did point and laugh- what's your reaction- just do what you are doing.

But the reality is NO ONE is going to point and laugh at you. They are either just trying to figure it out themselves- or they are too busy working to care. People people watch- sure. and Everyone started somewhere- but you have to try first- just like they did once.

Dragonwolf

Before my child and being anemic and having thyroid issues I was very athletic. I was a weight lifter in high school and became all american and I acomplished alot. When I joined the military and my workout consist of streching for a 1\2 hour and Id stay in the free weights. I prefer the free weights bc of my weight lifting experience. Its not for everone bc it requires knowlegde and to be alert. Ive seen ppl fall with a barbell around there necks, ppl drop a weight while doing a lateral press on there heads and pass out and Iv seen girl break her ankle atemping a leg press w/o realizing that the machine alone weighs alot w/o added weight. So hey, free weights looks cool in all but know what your doing to stay healthy and safe

This is what I am more worried about. Hurting myself. I think anyone can do it as long know what they are doing though.

Thanks for this post. I will get there, one day.

The takeaway you should have from this sort-of horror story - pay attention to what you're doing and don't be stupid.

If you're training alone (and even if you're not), err on the side of going light. There's no shame in doing a set with an empty bar or machine if you're not familiar with it or the exercise you're attempting (in fact, it's even common to do a set even when you are familiar with it, because you still need to warm up your body). You can always add more weight.

Even the freeweights have tools to make your workout safer. That's why racks with safety catches were invented. That's why there is equipment out there with wires on them that are sensitive to the conductive capability of human skin to create a "deadman's lock" and keep the bar from falling to the ground if you let go.

That said, weight lifting is an athletic activity, just like any other, and therefore comes with a certain degree of inherent "danger." But just like any other activity, if you respect that fact, and you respect that equipment, you greatly reduce the odds of injury.

kristen2713

Thank you JoRocka, you make some excellent points! It IS completely a self conscious hangup that I need to get over. I have my notes with me at home...I have Sagi in front of me on the DVD telling me to check my form. I worry I'll get to the gym and go blank, even with my notes. Totally dumb, I know. But I also know that to better myself and to continue growing in both fitness and as a person, I will have to face this fear and I thank you for your honest feedback and excellent points! What's the worst that's going to happen?

fittlefattle

Awesome post :flowerforyou:

I feel like anytime a room full of adults comes together and tries to share things there's potential for it to get weird. I spent a lot of time in a spit and sawdust type gym as a teenager. I was the only girl there my age; there were probably between 5-10 other female regulars there and they were all either competitive powerlifters or in physique competitions, I was in neither of those things. Some of my favorite memories are from that place and those guys (and ladies) were some of the nicest people you could meet. I was young then, young-female-non-professional...but if it mattered to them they never let me know it.

Given that background, I'm rarely ever uncomfortable in a gym setting. I just had too many positive experiences there as a kid, I don't know what could ever undo that. However, I have been on the receiving end of gym snark. I've been on the receiving end of lots of other kinds of snark, too. There are probably more friendly folks in the gym than sh*tty ones...and if I may...I think the weight room is where you may encounter some of the friendliest.

codycsweet

great tips thanks

33Freya

Thank you . We'll written

ZealousMissJJ

Great post! :flowerforyou:

Vex3521

Great post OP!