It may not seem like things have changed that quickly, but in recent decades there has been a very significant and welcome change in how women seeking physical strength and opportunities to fight are viewed in popular culture of most of the world.
I am constantly amazed at the progress being made by women in the sport of boxing. Women's magazines are promoting boxing as a way to lose weight, keep fit and pursue the sweet science competitively. Articles on how to get into boxing - where to find a boxing gym that is female-friendly are everywhere. And most importantly, facilities and instructors that allow women to participate in boxing training and competition are more available than ever.
This all shows how the attitudes toward women engaging in the sport of boxing is changing. In the past, women's fitness was more passive and geared mainly to obtaining the ideal figure. There was even the idea that machines could do all the work - like it was somehow possible to jiggle the fat away.
Hard to believe today, but in the early part of the 20th century a muscular woman was more likely to be on display in a circus.
Not today!
Today women are training for health, fitness and strength. Size is not so important. plus size women getting fit with boxing. And this trend is only going to continue in 2017.
Charity boxing events now include female participants in large numbers.
Young girls are taking up amateur boxing in ever increasing numbers.
Female athletes in a variety of sports also supplement their training with boxing. Women's soccer and rugby are good examples. Body builder Gina Davis is a boxing fan who also keeps fit with boxing.
Women are getting more opportunities to box competitively in tournaments around the world.
Women are entering the ranks of promotion, referees, trainers and coaches.
Female boxers impress with their toughness and courage in the ring.
But at the end of 2016 we saw the most encouraging developments of all with prominent and popular amateur boxers entering the world of professional boxing. Claressa Shields won her professional debut against a tough Franchon Crews in an exciting fight. Claressa turned professional to build a legacy.
Popular Irish boxer Katie Taylor has already won two entertaining professional fights. Turning pro has re-kindled Katie's love of boxing and it shows in the quality of her fights.
Fighters like Claressa and Katie are building fan bases which will grow the sport.
Improving access to competitive amateur and professional boxing is key. And seeing more women engaged in the sport breaks down stereotypes and is promoting a healthy image of female strength and showing that women are as tough as men.
No comments:
Post a Comment