Call me crazy, but I think women body builders embody a sort of feminine power; posing with their strength showing at every angle, turn and posture. They are the opposite of meek, submissive doormats. They are strong, independent, in control of themselves and their lives, drivers of their own cars, sailors of their own sleek, muscular ships.
Yet it may surprise you to learn that female body builders are still paid far below their male counterparts in all body building competitions. In fact, so many women bodybuilders are not able to support themselves in their sport that they resort to something called "Muscle Worship" http://femalemuscle.com/galleries/femalemuscle-body-worship-part-2/ a profession, not unlike prostitution, in which female bodybuilders are paid, mostly by men, to undress, pose and have their muscles examined and studied, touched and admired. Although many of the women claim there is no sex involved, the overtones of getting paid for skin exposure are hard to miss.
While I am all for legal, safe, consensual enjoyment, I can't help but chafe, just a bit. For aren't these women bodybuilders the very women who stand for something other than just taking off their shirts for men's eyes and money? Aren't they the ones who hold women up to a completely different standard, who represent autonomy, courage, defiance, flying in the face of traditional stereotypes and rigorous oppression?
If the people involved feel empowered, it is far from my place to judge. It does disappoint me just a little, though, to see WonderWoman as just another webcam girl.
For more on this topic follow this link: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/topicoftheweek140.htm
Aimee Boyle is contemplating her lack of muscles in CT. She is a regular contributor to EmpowHER.