Why are more women lifting weights than ever before?

Women are lifting heavy in 2024 than it’s ever been. 

There’s been a 20% increase in female participation in competitive lifting and bodybuilding events in the U.S, and here in Australia, there are now more women than men competing in a range national events. But, bodybuilding can come with a darkside – disordered eating, steroid use, and pushing yourself to the physical extreme.

So why are so many women joining the movement? Is it smart – is it safe – and what does life look like when you do?

On this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by LiSTNR’s Ed Gooden to explore what he found out when he asked those in the sport why they do it.  

Today’s deep dive discusses disordered eating – If you need help or support for an eating disorder or body image issue, please call The Butterfly Foundation’s National Helpline on 1800 334 673. 

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