Clare Johnston
It’s for each of us to choose what form our armour comes in
A FEW days ago, I found myself debating the pros and cons of bodybuilding on a radio show with Chloe Madeley.
The fitness coach and daughter of daytime TV titans Richard and Judy is super-toned and muscular with a stomach you could do the ironing on.
I would never knock anyone for getting fit and staying active. That’s something we should all aim for after all.
But another contributor talked about the addictive quality of bodybuilding, the feeling of strength it gave her, the empowerment.
And I couldn’t help but think her muscles had become a bit of a coat of armour.
For some of us it’s six-inch heels, for others it’s Dr Marten boots, but don’t most women wear some kind of armour – that thing that helps us feel a little more ready to face the world?
I rarely leave the house without make-up. I would NEVER turn up at work or to an event without it. To do so would be like going to a black-tie function in a vest and shorts.
I don’t like wearing a short skirt because it makes me feel vulnerable, maybe a little too feminine.
I don’t know if that’s right or wrong but I do know other women take a completely different view and I have no objection to short skirts on anyone else. I also understand the temptation to pump iron and build up another layer of protection – but I can’t help but wonder why we’re doing it? Why do we have to change the way we look to feel better about ourselves?
Heaven knows, after the river rapid of sexual harassment scandals, it’s not hard to see why women can feel uncomfortable in their own skin.
We cover ourselves in make-up to feel more confident and then, when it attracts the wrong kind of attention, want to scrub it off. Those very heels that make some feel more empowered can turn pesky heads too. Looking “good” is becoming increasingly important in our world. It’s all part of appearing confident, energised and in control. It’s a force that’s stronger among women right now because it has always been there in some form – but it’s coming for men too. That’s why the number turning to hair transplants is absolutely soaring, and why actor James Nesbitt admitted that having the surgery has boosted his career. But, whatever our motivation, it’s for each of us to choose what form our armour comes in. And it’s for others to accept that whether it’s a woman in a tuxedo, or a man getting a spray tan, you don’t judge them for it – and it’s never a licence for unwanted attention.