International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th, and it is a day to recognize the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women worldwide. This year’s theme is “Choose to Challenge,” which aims to encourage everyone to challenge gender bias and inequality. One area where this is especially important is women’s health and exercise.
The importance of exercise for women’s health cannot be overstated. Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes and chronic pain. Exercise can also improve mental health, boost energy levels, and promote healthy aging. Despite these benefits, many women still struggle to incorporate exercise into their daily routines.
Knowing the importance and value exercise can provide, there are numerous barriers that can prevent women from participating in regular exercise. Here are some of the most common:
- Societal expectations: As mentioned above, there are often societal expectations surrounding women’s bodies and physical activity that can create a sense of pressure or shame around exercise.
- Lack of access to resources: Women may not have access to safe and affordable facilities, such as gyms or parks, where they can exercise. Additionally, they may not have access to equipment or clothing that is necessary for certain types of physical activity.
- Time constraints: While time isn’t the only barrier, it can still be a significant one for many women. Women are often caregivers for children and other family members, which can make it challenging to find time for exercise.
- Health concerns: Women may have health concerns or injuries that make it difficult or uncomfortable to exercise. Exercise can provide the greatest benefit for overcoming and treating these health concerns but it’s the most common treatment method that is avoided due to fear of making the them worse or inability.
- Cultural barriers: Cultural attitudes or beliefs can also be a barrier to exercise for some women. For example, some cultures may discourage women from participating in certain types of physical activity or may not provide opportunities for women to exercise in gender-segregated spaces.
- Fear of judgment or harassment: Women may feel uncomfortable or unsafe exercising in certain settings due to fear of judgment or harassment from others. This can include fear of being stared at, the use of unsolicited comments or made to feel unwelcome. Being in a public gym facility can provide much discomfort, lack of confidence and anxiety.
It’s important to recognize these barriers and work to overcome them in order to promote greater gender equity in physical activity. At Longevity Nexum, Barrie Ontario, we create a more inclusive and supportive fitness space that is completely private and have university educated staff that provides resources and education for women’s health.
Here are some tips on how to overcome barriers to exercise for women:
- Find activities that you enjoy: Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Find activities that you genuinely enjoy doing, whether that’s dancing, hiking, or practicing yoga. When you find something that you enjoy, it can be easier to stick with it.
- Set achievable goals: Instead of setting lofty or unrealistic goals, focus on setting small, achievable goals that will help you build confidence and momentum. For example, start by committing to a 10-minute walk every day, and gradually increase your time and intensity.
- Create a support network: Having a community of supportive friends, family members, or workout partners can help you stay motivated and accountable. You can also consider joining a women’s fitness group or club that provides a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Be kind to yourself: It’s okay to have setbacks or days where you don’t feel like exercising. Remember to be kind to yourself and focus on progress, not perfection.
- Prioritize self-care: In addition to exercise, prioritize other forms of self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress. When you take care of yourself in these ways, it can be easier to make exercise a consistent part of your routine.
- Educate yourself: Learn about the health benefits of exercise and how to safely incorporate physical activity into your life. Talk to one of Registered Kinesiologists for personalized exercise prescription, resources and guidance.
- Advocate for change: If you notice that certain barriers to exercise, such as lack of safe and affordable facilities, are affecting you or your community, consider advocating for change. This can include advocating for more funding for public parks and recreation centers, or pushing for more inclusive and welcoming fitness spaces.
At Longevity Nexum, Barrie Ontario, our Registered Kinesiologist is certified in Women’s Health with a specialization in Pre and Post Natal Coaching. If find yourself in a position where you don’t know where to start with exercise and the barriers seem impossible to overcome, please reach out to us and we would love to help you. Call us at (800) 963-440.
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