FEMALES ARE NO LONGER FRAGLIE. I know it sounds incredibly absurd. I know you may not be able to fathom it. But, it is 2018, and women now lift weights. They are grabbing the barbell, throwing it on their backs, and pushing 300 lbs with perfect squat form. They are stepping off the treadmills and invading the free weights area, benching, deadlifting, and becoming stronger than ever was thought to be possible. And they most likely do not need your input or lift lesson.

I cannot tell you how many times myself or my other friends that consistently lift weights receive the questions, “Are you sure you know what you’re doing? I don’t think your form is correct? Do you really think you should move up with that much weight?” The answer is yes. We do. We have already been instructed on the proper way to squat. We know how to keep our core tight on the deadlift, and we know the proper weight to add with each set of bench. It is about time that the men in the gym realize that just because a girl is doing something other than cardio, she is not out of her element.

This is not to say that it is wrong to look to help someone while you’re getting your workout in. The gym provides a special connection with all types of people. Everyone there is trying to better themselves, clear their minds, and struggle. They are there to push their bodies and sometimes a little help is needed. So, if you see a woman looking around for a spot, I guarantee she is going to gladly accept your offer. But, if you are going to spot her and then question her form and ability to push the weight she is trying to push, then she is going to be angry.

You already know the unwritten rules of the weight room. You know when to offer advice and when to keep your mouth shut. IF YOU WOULD NOT SAY SOMETHING TO A MALE, THEN YOU SHOULD NOT SAY IT TO A FEMALE.

This perception that females are fragile is being shattered every day. Athletes lift and run. Body builders train to perfection. Women workout for the same reasons and in the same way that men do. The words you use in the weight room are degrading. The questions you ask are a mask of your insecurity with the fact that the girl next to you could possibly bench more. And this needs to stop, now.

The respect is no longer optional, it is necessary. So, the next time you find it absurd that a woman is doing something other than the elliptical, don’t. Realize that strength has no gender, choose your words carefully, and respect every human being in the gym looking to become the newer, stronger, better version of themselves.