Power Remix

I attended an aerobic dance workout, Power Remix, with Sydney. We chose to do this because men don’t attend these types of workout sessions. While we were waiting to enter the class, I did feel some folks look over, but no prolonged stares. During the whole class I didn’t feel out of place or unwelcomed. No one said anything to me during or afterwards, but no one talked to anyone so it was probably out of exhaustion. I talked to the instructor when most folks had left and explained the purpose of the experiment and asked what her experience with men, or a lack thereof was like. She said that she wished more men came because it’s a good workout for people of any sex. She talked about how some men she’s had in class don’t get into it and that makes the experience difficult or awkward. Because I was enthusiastic and totally committed myself that I was going to do this well, the class was fine.

What I took away from the class, besides some soreness, was that the workout session is fine with having men there. Since I had set my mind to it and acted like there was no reason why I wouldn’t be doing Power Remix, I think that contributed to my sense of belonging. Talking to the instructor made me realize that attitude plays a major role; a woman who showed up to the class for the first time thinking that it was stupid and she wasn’t going to get anything out of it would be more out of place than me. I also believe that these types of classes are female-dominated because men select themselves out. There is probably a sense that it isn’t a masculine workout and that men shouldn’t go, not that an atmosphere from the class itself men don’t belong. There is some sense of embarrassment, but I think everyone feels that depending on their comfort level with themselves, regardless of sex. I was most comfortable when I could show off my hips.