The tide of change moves slowly, but once it gets going, it’s hard to hold it back for very long. After decades (centuries) of the patriarchy ruling the world and telling women how (and how not) to feel while occupying public spaces with men, there are people and places stepping up to listen to women and make changes accordingly.
One of those places is Blush Fitness, an all-female gym located in Overland Park, KS. Not only do they not allow a co-ed membership, they go the extra mile to make their customers feel comfortable and safe by doin things like tinting the front windows so no one on the street can see inside.
Image Credit: TikTok
23-year-old Heather Huesman posted about the gym on TikTok, and the video has since amassed more than 6 million views.
Other safety measures include a front door that is always locked and requires a pre-programmed fob to gain entrance, free period products in the bathrooms, and signs that let members know when male staff will be in the building.
Image Credit: TikTok
Huesman told Buzzfeed that as far as she is concerned, the place is a breath of fresh air.
“I definitely feel safer in an all-women’s gym. I personally like to wear tight clothing because it is easier to work out in, and I don’t have to worry about men taking photos of me without my permission, or worry about men making me feel uncomfortable while I’m there. There are also not so many people there that all the racks are being taken up. The place is very clean and has great energy and vibes to it!”
While plenty of people on TikTok (and beyond) share her sentiments about the model being something they would definitely use if it was available, others (mostly dudes) were quick to scream “segregation!” at the entire concept.
Image Credit: TikTok
Heather told Buzzfeed she thinks that’s silly, and also not the definition of the word. If we’re keeping track.
“I don’t think the gym is segregation at all. I honestly love the idea of an all-men’s gym as well. I think it someone is mad that there’s an all-women’s gym, it’s because they want women in their co-ed gym for a reason. Whatever makes people feel comfortable working out at a gym is what should be done. Everyone is there for a reason and needs to start somewhere!”
Basically, anyone who pitches a fit about this being available is probably one of the reasons it exists in the first place.
@heatherhuesman The BEST GYM! We need these everywhere, we feel so safe and comfortable going to the gym, gonna be my new favorite spot!🦋💕 #fyp #TikTokGGT #blush
Sorry not sorry.
Do you have an option like this where you live? Would you take advantage of it if you did?
Let’s chat about it in the comments!
