Tuesday, March 8th is International Women's Day. It is a global celebration to lift up women and applaud how far we have come.
This week, I want to send a shout out to all our female clients and friends of Arete Athletics. Our female clients span generations and come from all different walks of life, but I can tell you one thing they have in common; they are STRONG! They have not only glistened, but actually sweat buckets, persevered through years of grueling workouts, and spent countless hours listening to my husband count out loud. Kudos to you, ladies!
Our business started as "Myles's business" but has grown into being a partnership between the two of us. Admittedly, I was hesitant to start taking a larger role in "his" training business but it became apparent to both of us that I could lend a hand as well as provide a service to his clients. I'm not shy, or quiet, nor do I lack self confidence, but being a woman and taking on a role in the male dominated business of personal strength training and coaching was slightly intimidating for me.
How many female coaches can you name? It's kind of hard huh? How many female "Arnold Schwarzeneggers or Dwayne Johnsons" can you come up with? In the fitness industry, many of the published and followed influencers are all male as well. There aren't a lot of female role models for us to follow yet, however I imagine they are coming. This line of work is if full of strong, powerful women and we are starting to wedge our way into the fitness world beyond the realm of spandex leotards and thigh masters.
My experience as a woman entering a male dominated industry is not unique to fitness. There are women all over the world that work in "traditionally male jobs" and it's not easy for them to show up everyday and have to prove themselves worthy of that spot. AND they typically make less then the men who hold the same position. Its not fair- none of it is.
As a society we have come so far, even in my lifetime, but we have miles to go before we are anywhere near equitable.
Raising two daughters, I'm particularly sensitive to how I frame my conversations about the future with them. I tell them they can do anything they want to do, be anyone they want to be and love anyone they want to love.
I can't wait to see how these driven young girls coming of age in this time of female power shifting can further the cause. In recent years feminism and women's rights have gained ground by being recognized, amplified, and supported by men as well. Let's keep up the good work until we are all entering a new job or industry on equal ground.