Research indicates that 78% of women experience some level of "gymtimidation" at co-ed gyms. So, what types of female-only spaces are gaining popularity?

Since I met my husband, I've felt overwhelmed by his passion for cars. As a collector of vintage vehicles, he knows all about carburetors, drive shafts, and more. When he starts talking about "multiport fuel injected engines," I often zone out, wondering how I ended up with someone who notices when I forget to fill up my tank.

Fortunately, I don't need to visit a mechanic for routine maintenance. However, during the rare times I've taken my car to a service center, I've encountered men who can be condescending and even rude. Each time I return home after such visits, I tell my husband the same thing: Why aren't there auto shops run by women, for women? Admittedly, I sometimes ask him to come along when I drop off my car, as I feel I'm taken more seriously with him there.

This issue isn't exclusive to car repair shops. A recent survey asked 1,438 women globally about their gym experiences, revealing common fears such as harassment, body image concerns, and judgment. Alarmingly, 1 in 3 women stated they actively seek out all-female gyms.

Recently, I asked the women in our private Facebook group about their preference for female-only spaces. I wanted them to share why they feel more at ease around other women and how these environments encourage openness.

Unsurprisingly, we received diverse responses, ranging from "gymtimidation" to experiences in male-dominated careers.

Samantha Fiske shared her early preference for female-only environments. She said, "As a child, I loved summer camps and clubs for girls because they provided a safe space to try new things without fear of judgment. It also allowed me to deepen friendships without the distraction of boys."

When discussing women-only spaces, many participants mentioned the term mansplaining. Several women expressed their frustration with being talked down to about topics they already understand. Kerry Watson noted, "It's not about lacking knowledge; I've got an MBA and retired early. In women-only settings, we can express ourselves freely without being overshadowed."

Katie Merten added, "In my study group, when it's just women, we all get to contribute. But when men are present, a woman's question often gets answered by a man as if she knows nothing."

Julie Wood expressed a desire for ride-sharing apps to offer a female driver option. Many agreed with her, and she pointed out, "In India, there are new taxi services with female drivers designed to address harassment concerns for women traveling alone."

Patricia YP shared a helpful link to a service aimed at empowering women in the car industry, emphasizing community support and education. Their mission highlights the importance of confidence in navigating automotive challenges.

Sarah ONeill described her positive experience at a dealership with female staff who explain repairs without condescension. She appreciates that they treat her as knowledgeable, even if she hasn't had the same exposure to car mechanics.

Rosie Hoa and Kathryn Brown discussed the need for all-female car dealerships. Hoa remarked, "I bring my husband when shopping for cars, even though he's not a great negotiator. It's the perception that having a man with me adds legitimacy." Brown echoed this sentiment, saying, "I fear going alone because I know I won't be treated with the same respect as if I were accompanied by a male relative."

While we cherish our supportive community, Courtney Boetcher Zoltowski summed it up well: "When women seek out female-only environments, it's often for a mix of reasons. For me, the main one is that I want to achieve my goals without wasting time explaining myself to someone who isn't listening or who feels the need to mansplain."

We wholeheartedly agree, Courtney!

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