The real reason why women are flocking to female-only gyms

The topic of female-only gym spaces has always been one of hot debate but the owners of two training studios have revealed why it’s so important.Diana Johnson and Felicia Oreb, who now own women-only personal training business Base Body Babes Studio, opened their first gym in 2014 alongside Felicia’s husband Sebastian Oreb.But the women, who have 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry, quickly noticed something.“While we absolutely loved the gym and our members did too, we noticed early on that many of the women were requesting to train during times when the male members weren’t on the gym floor,” Diana and Felicia told news.com.au.“This insight led us to open our sister gym that catered exclusively to women.The response was overwhelmingly positive, and many of our members preferred training at the female-only facility over the mixed-gender gym.”Diana and Felicia said from their own experience of 25 years worth of weightlifting, plus being in the fitness industry, the presence of men could lead to self-consciousness or intimidation – especially in heavy weightlifting areas.“Unwanted attention, such as stares, comments, or harassment, can create an uncomfortable or unsafe environment, discouraging women from fully participating or returning to the gym,” the pair explained.The duo said when they first opened their gym, weightlifting for women was still in its early stages.

But, now, there has been a significant increase in women not only lifting but lifting heavy weights with confidence.But, no matter what, they believe that there will always be a place for female-only fitness spaces.“Many women feel more comfortable working out in an environment where they are free from unwanted attention, which can help them feel more confident and focused on their fitness goals,” Diana and Felicia said.“Some women may also hesitate to go to mixed-gender gyms due to intimidation, discomfort, and fear of judgment, which is something we saw first...