The Paradoxes of Feminine Muscle
Briefly

In her new book, Casey Johnston explores how her commitment to strength training helped her escape the confines of diet culture. Through a historical lens, the article illustrates how bodybuilding has evolved from a largely disdained activity in the 1970s to a mainstream symbol of empowerment and self-identity by the 1990s. The cultural shift is exemplified by the image of President George H. W. Bush lifting weights alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, reflecting America's changing perspective on strength and fitness, thus blending athleticism and societal acceptance.
In the 1970s, bodybuilding was considered an odd endeavor. By the 90s, even the President was seen lifting weights, signifying a cultural shift towards embracing strength.
Author Casey Johnston's new book reveals how strength training helped her break free from societal diet culture, highlighting the complex relationship between strength and identity.
Read at The New Yorker
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