Women in gyms: what barriers they face and how to overcome them

Researchers surveyed 279 women (84 per cent of whom went to the gym regularly) and found that obstacles were encountered in several areas: body image, workout clothes, the physical environment of the gym and interactions with other gym-goers.

Source: "I sometimes feel like I can't win!: An exploratory mixed-methods study of women's body image and experiences of exercising in gym settings", PLOS ONE (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0316756

Feelings of insecurity and judgement

Many of the participants spoke of feeling as though their appearance and fitness levels were constantly being judged by others. There is a persistent feeling of 'not having enough of something' - women feel that they do not fulfil other people's expectations. This sometimes manifests itself in unwanted comments from men or the feeling that they have to 'win' space in the gym, especially if the gym is full.

Clothing as a barrier and incentive

An interesting point relates to gym uniforms. Some women chose clothing primarily based on comfort and functionality (e.g., so that nothing restricted movement). Others were concerned about how they would look against the background of others and often tried to hide so-called "problem areas". Some girls were afraid of looking "too dressy" or, on the contrary, not fashionable enough if they did not have sportswear from well-known brands. Participants also avoided brightly coloured outfits so as not to attract unnecessary attention or accentuate sweat stains.

Challenges in the gym space itself

Researchers noted that gym environments often make women feel as though they must either conform to some 'ideal' or face constant criticism. However, the researchers emphasised that some female participants found support from other attendees and even reported a sense of "liberation" when they were able to break stereotypes and safely engage in strength training or other "traditionally masculine" activities.

Gender and cultural factors

The study was conducted predominantly among white heterosexual women of 'normal' build (by their own definitions) living in socially developed countries. This means that the results may not capture the experiences of a more diverse range of people - for example, those with a different build, ethnic background or who are less likely to attend gyms.

Ways forward

The authors believe there is a need to work on several fronts at once:

1. Gym level: create a more welcoming environment, paying attention to both the design of the space and policies on harassment and unsolicited comments.
2. Societal level: build tolerance for different body types so that women don't feel constantly pressured to conform to a certain "ideal".
3. Personal strategy: choose comfortable clothing and stick to your own fitness goals without being guided by other people's judgements.

Cowley and Schneider's work demonstrates that in gyms, as in other aspects of life, women are often caught between two fires - on the one hand, trying not to look "too much" and on the other hand, fearing to appear "not good enough". Although traditional standards of "thinness" are changing and the "athletic" body type is gaining popularity, this can give rise to new complexes. Researchers call for everyone in the fitness community - from gym owners to trainers and visitors - to support each other to create an environment where women feel more comfortable exercising, improving their health and achieving their fitness goals.