Self & Society: Fitness Work That Body!

Fewer curves, more muscles: a sweat-soaked revolution redefines the shape of beauty

I am strong. I am invincible. I am woman.

-- I Am Woman

When Helen Reddy belted out her 1972 hit, she had no idea it would pump up women. Not only did the song become the unofficial anthem of the feminist movement, but women and girls seemed to take the words literally and headed off to the gym. In the two decades since, female attitudes toward fitness and athletics have undergone a vigorous shake-up. Across the country, women are working out, running hard, even pumping iron. And they are doing it not just to look attractive but also to gain...

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