Women in bodybuilding: Beauty with a touch of steel

WHEN the word “bodybuilding” is mentioned, many envision a male figure with pumped-up muscles, lifting massive weights. However, four women are breaking stereotypes and inspiring others to pursue fitness and bodybuilding as a means of empowerment.

Charlene Moyo (28) is a former football player turned fitness trainer, who organises campaigns and events to raise awareness on various social issues.

Conscience Ndlovu (22) is a biotechnology student who has become a rising star in the fitness world. Karen Nyoni is a marketing professional and entrepreneur who prioritises her health and wellness despite the demands of her business. Shyleen Ruth Nyathi (27) is the reigning Ms Bulawayo in bodybuilding, who encourages women to step out of their comfort zones and join the fitness community.

These women are proof that building muscle and being fit is not just a male pursuit, but a path towards empowerment and strength for women.

Before 1977, bodybuilding was predominantly seen as a male-oriented sport. But Henry McGhee, often hailed as the “primary architect of competitive female bodybuilding”, held a strong belief that women deserved the opportunity to showcase their physique and weight training results, just as men had done for years.

Building muscle isn’t solely a male pursuit; it’s a path to empowerment for women. By developing lean muscle, a woman enhances her functional strength, metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Moreover, this muscle gain helps her fend off future fat accumulation more effectively than simply focusing on weight loss.

Charlene is a fitness trainer at Body Works Gym in Bulawayo, and her journey began at Masotsha High School in Magwegwe North. Her commitment to fitness exemplifies the fusion of strength and grace, proving that beauty and steel can indeed coexist.

“I played football from a young age at Masotsha High School, Inline Academy and New Orleans Football Club, and retired in 2017. It was not an easy journey, but I didn’t give up,” said Charlene.

In 2019, Charlene began her journey toward fitness. She organised several campaigns and events on drug awareness, child abuse, breast cancer awareness and GBV during the Covid-19 era.

“Zimbabwean women should be aware of their rights and learn to stand on our own. As a fitness trainer, I advise everyone to stay healthy, let’s look after our bodies. It’s not only for fun, but a good way to detox mentally and it increases one’s chances at having a good and healthy body,” said Charlene.

Her family did not initially accept her career choice because they did not see the value in fitness, but over time they came to see the benefits of leading a fit lifestyle.

“As a football player, we faced a lot of challenges as girls. For example, we were not getting enough equipment to use, had no sponsors and some of us couldn’t even afford sanitary pads, so being in sports as a woman comes with a lot of hurdles,” she said.

Charlene said she decided to become a fitness trainer in order to support other women who lack self-confidence, encourage former football players to pursue other interests after retirement and give back to the community.

Conscience, a student at Nust, isn’t just excelling in her studies, but is a rising star in the world of fitness. Nicknamed “Ms Waist”, her fitness journey began two years ago at Dynamics Gym before moving to Body Works Gym.

“I’ve always wanted to get in better shape and feel more confident in my body. I believe that a woman’s body should make a statement without opening her mouth. I started by going to the gym a few times a week and changed my diet to include healthier foods. Over time, I started to see results and I began to feel more confident and have more energy,” said Conscience.

Karen from Gweru isn’t just building a business in women’s apparel, but is also building a strong and healthy lifestyle.

Karen embarked on her fitness journey from 2020, and she embodies the power of multitasking. Despite the demands of her business, she prioritises her health and wellness. The true source of her inspiration is her 12-year-old daughter, who cheers her every step of the way. Of course, Karen also receives unwavering support from her family and friends, making her a true example of success in all aspects of life.

“The sports industry is quite intense, it requires a lot of hard work, dedication and enthusiasm, and I greatly admire all female athletes reaching the limits of great physical ability and making a difference in the world,” said Karen.

“Staying fit and healthy is a virtue. In fact, it should be rule number one and women need to pursue their goals and dreams regardless of challenges they face in every aspect of life or profession,” she shared.

Shyleen isn’t afraid to break the mould. Her fitness journey began at 20, but it wasn’t always about bodybuilding. Initially drawn to athletics, Shyleen faced a compelling choice: maintain her slender physique or embrace a different path in fitness. Ultimately, she chose to inspire other women by venturing into bodybuilding, proving that strength and beauty can go hand-in-hand.

“I started training in athletics, but later got into bodybuilding because I just loved the way I was starting to look. It’s never been an easy thing to do, especially when you can’t decide whether you want to stay slim or curvy,” said Shyleen.

She sticks to a strict diet and that sometimes can be a challenge.

“Food is a challenge because you can’t just eat anything, especially as a woman. For men it’s easy, they don’t care as much as we do, especially when it comes to the tummy and waist,” she said.

While seasoned athletes likely have established routines, Shyleen’s message is especially powerful for women who haven’t yet embarked on a fitness journey. She encouraged women to step out of their comfort zones and join the vibrant fitness community.

“My advice to women who are afraid to hit the gym is that there is nothing to lose. Remember no pain no gain, take that step to happiness. Take a look at me, I love the way I look and I’m confident with my body,” said Shyleen.