International Women’s Day 2025 is here, and this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, calls for meaningful change toward gender equality. One area where action is urgently needed is ensuring safe, welcoming, and inclusive fitness environments for women.

At Ireland Active, we recognise that women face unique barriers when accessing gyms and fitness facilities, limiting their ability to reap the health benefits of physical activity. This International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting these barriers, advocating for change, and encouraging the fitness industry to take action to create safer, more inclusive spaces.

The Reality: Women Face Significant Barriers in Gyms & Fitness Spaces

While the benefits of physical activity are well-documented, a growing body of research confirms that women experience challenges in gym settings that discourage their participation.

A recent study conducted by Emma S. Cowley, PhD (Technological University of the Shannon) and Kat Schneider, PhD (University of the West of England) found that women frequently experience body image concerns, harassment, and intimidation in gym spaces. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as “gymtimidation”, has been widely discussed across media platforms:

Media Mentions of the Study:
EurekAlert! – Women exercising in gyms often face barriers including body image and harassment.
Healio – ‘Gyms need to do more’: Addressing exercise barriers for women to improve health.
The Independent – Of course, women suffer gym-phobia—has anyone been in a gym lately?
Daily Mail – Inside the movement against “gymtimidation’.
Athletech – New study reveals struggles women face in gyms.
Earth.com – Gym-phobia: The hidden workout hurdles faced by women.

Lift by Anne Marie Chaker: Gymtimidation is Real

Celebrate Muliebrity with Michelle Lyons Podcast: Women in Sport: A Reacher Update: Episode 66: Dr Emma S. Cowley

Key Findings: What’s Keeping Women Out of the Gym?

Gym Intimidation & Judgment – Many women feel self-conscious, judged, or uncomfortable in gym environments, leading to a lack of confidence when exercising​​.

Harassment & Safety Concerns – Studies highlight that unsolicited comments, stares, and intimidation discourage women from participating in gym-based fitness​​.

Appearance & Gym Attire Pressures – The pressure to look a certain way or wear “acceptable” gym attire contributes to body image concerns and discomfort​.

Lack of Representation & Inclusive Spaces – Women often feel excluded from male-dominated gym areas, particularly in weightlifting sections, and struggle to be taken seriously when using gym equipment​.

Accelerating Action: Creating a More Inclusive Fitness Industry

1. Making Gyms Safer & More Supportive

  • Implement zero-tolerance policies on harassment and clear reporting procedures.
  • Offer women-only gym spaces or designated time slots to encourage participation.

2. Encouraging More Female Representation

  • Increase the number of female coaches, trainers, and facility managers.
  • Support female-led fitness programs and initiatives.

3. Breaking the Stereotypes

  • Challenge outdated gym culture and gender norms that discourage women from strength training.
  • Promote body-positive messaging that focuses on health, strength, and well-being.

 4. Providing Education & Awareness

  • Train gym staff on inclusivity and gender sensitivity.
  • Educate women on their rights to feel safe, respected, and confident in fitness spaces.

Get Involved: Let’s #AccelerateAction This International Women’s Day!

Join the conversation! Tell us what changes you’d like to see in gym environments to make them more welcoming for women.

Together, we can break barriers, inspire change, and create an inclusive fitness industry where women feel confident, safe, and supported.

To Read the Full Research Study (“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): CLICK HERE!