@ Boris: you’re probably right, I was exaggerating for effect. I’m sure some men find it all a bit disconcerting and would prefer the status quo. Obviously you’re not one of those people!

@ Sasha: that’s an interesting situation, don’t quite know what to make of it but thanks for sharing.

@ Michael: actually I’m coming to Ireland this Christmas to see Dan John.

@ Rolfe: good analysis, thanks! It’s amazing to me how the myths persist. It used to frustrate me but now I am reconciled to a more drip-drip approach. Or perhaps a snowball approach. Some kind of geologically-inspired method anyway.

@ Ron: thank you for drawing that causal relationship between strength training and attractiveness. I agree with you; the very fact that a woman chooses to defy strong social pressures to behave a certain way shows strength of character and that’s very attractive (to some people anyway).

It’s also encouraging to hear that more women are exploring different types of strength training on their own. I’m starting to see this too (although in a very small way in my little corner of England) and it’s exciting!

@ Varsha: lovely to hear from you! I had a quick look at your blog – it looks great and I will be back to read more.

@ Christine: you’re so right!

@ Justin: okay now I’m blushing…

@ jon: it is impressive in a twisted sort of way how successful the bodybuilding industry has been in creating the myth that lifting weights in the gym alone is responsible for the bodies we see on the covers of those magazines. You can see why many people believe it. We just have to keep telling the truth and practising what we preach.

@ Sajini: cheers mate! I just hope it’s not because I look mean and intimidating!

@ deb: great post, deb. Glad you are writing about these issues too. The more the merrier!

http://www.blogher.com/define-strong-woman