Curious to hear people’s thoughts on this from the fitness/strength sports world.
In comps like CrossFit Games, HYROX, Deadly Dozen etc, men and women have different prescribed weights, which obviously makes sense based on general averages.
But should women who want to attempt the heavier prescribed weights be allowed to?
I work in fitness and know plenty of women who are fully capable of handling the heavier loads in certain events, yet they’re often not allowed unless competing in a mixed pair with a man. It can feel a bit like there’s a ceiling placed on female athletes regardless of individual ability.
Not saying standards should be removed — more wondering whether there should be optional heavier/open-weight categories for athletes who want the challenge.
Interested to hear perspectives from people who compete/train in these spaces.