World Women's Day Interview with Lidia

Hello Lidia, could you tell us briefly about yourself and what motivated you to share your story?

My name is Lidia, 28 years old, and I'm a passionate bodybuilder. I wanted to share my experiences because I firmly believe that shared stories can be a source of inspiration and strength for all of us. Additionally, I think I can encourage other women with my experience to follow their own path and achieve their goals.

What aspects of your life and personality define you the most?

Sport is a fundamental, if not the most crucial, part of my life and also a reflection of my personality. This lifestyle has taught me a lot. Bodybuilding is a lifestyle that personally fascinates me, especially the theme of discipline. Success in bodybuilding depends entirely on one's performance and, above all, willpower, both in the gym and outside. This level of performance can also be transferred to other areas of life.

Shoppe die EmpowHER Kette – we donate 100 % of the net proceeds to help victims of domestic violence in Hawaii. 

What does being a woman mean to you?

Being a woman means being able to do anything but not having to do everything. Being capable of everything and not having to fulfill any societal stereotypes. A woman can achieve anything she wants. That's why I see bodybuilding as a message: I've shaped my body according to my own image. Also, being a woman means to me being sensitive, empathetic, emotional, sensual, and intuitive, but also strong, decisive, energetic, and being perceived as such. Unfortunately, the latter is sometimes only possible with a lot of effort and struggle.

Bodybuilding is still a sport where women are less represented than men. Have you experienced prejudices or challenges in this sport because of your gender? If so, how do you deal with it?

Fortunately, I encounter fewer prejudices, but I think the biggest challenge was dealing with statements like, "I think it's great that you're so athletic, but don't overdo it, don't become too muscular!" I felt that women were expected to conform to an ideal image, and muscles did not fit into this ideal image because they were considered "masculine." It was difficult at the beginning to counteract this and follow my own path.

What impact does sport have on your self-confidence, mental strength, and self-perception?

Sport has a significant effect on my self-perception and self-love. I dedicate this time to myself, realize myself, and get to know my body in a completely new way. In the long run, you develop a trusting relationship with your body and strengthen confidence in your own abilities. You dare to do things that you used to admire in other people. Achieving goals makes you happy, and this feeling never wears off. So, sport enhances both your physical and mental well-being equally! And this is directly related to self-confidence: Because when you feel comfortable in your own body, you automatically appear more confident.

What was the most impressive moment that particularly strengthened you on your journey?

There is no one moment. I think it's the sum of all moments that makes this journey so special. But if I had to choose one moment, it would be the competitions. There, you receive recognition for your lifestyle from experts. This was the case with my first competition season when my hard work was recognized with a good placement.

Do you have any advice or tips for other women considering starting bodybuilding or entering a male-dominated sport?

Women should definitely not let society hold them back. It's important to realize their own dreams and follow their own path. We women are capable of anything and should have the courage to just do it, without looking to the left or right. If it makes you happy, then do it. And more importantly, no one should be discriminated against or disadvantaged because of their gender.

What changes or developments would you like to see to promote gender equality in both everyday life and sports?

It's important to move away from this black-and-white thinking, but also among women to show more solidarity, exchange ideas, and encourage each other to try new things.

What inspiration would you like to give to other women?

I want to inspire every woman to live their dreams and shape their lives according to their wishes. Just follow your own path and don't let self-doubt hold you back. If we want to lead a liberal, self-determined life, we have to stand up for it and act accordingly. To live happily in the long run, we have to appreciate ourselves, step out of our comfort zone, and dare to try new things.

What does International Women's Day mean to you?

Being a woman is a superpower. In a world marked by growing differences and increasing extremes, we should advocate for solidarity. International Women's Day is not only a reason to celebrate but also an opportunity to promote solidarity among women.