A Critique on The Role Of Gender In Health and
Fitness Architecture
Curves Gym Enterprise
Aggieland Fitness Dome, College Station, Texas
Gender Roles in Western Society
The male figure in traditional western society has been typically stigmatised as
the more dominant character and the primary provider. Their roles required an aggressive
nature, ability to defend and assertiveness.
Possessing these traits insured, within most social climates, a comfortable place
within their community.
In western culture, the traditional role of the female has been described as the
nurturer; completing the backbone of domestic duties and providing undervalued support
for the male figure and offspring. Undertones of subservience prevailed, as they were
typically assigned and limited to less exulted jobs then men.
Gender Roles In Traditional Aboriginal Culture
Male
-Hunter
-Protector
-Leader
-Voice of Politics
Female
-Gatherer
-Minder
-Reared children
until passage of
rights reached
This was the typical division of tasks, however some activities were gender
irrespective, such as medical deliverance. Equal importance was placed on roles, yet
many male and female tasks were still carried out separately. Culturally and religiously it
was considered absolutely integral to abide by the strict segregation of gender assigned
activities, for example, a male would not prepare food. This method of allocated tasks
was highly respected and essential to their survival. Today, Aborigines still place great
emphasis on “men’s business” and “women’s business.”
How Gender Roles Are Reflected In The Fitness Industry
The fitness industry found its inception in what were originally designed as boys
clubs, with a focus on physical development, competition, prowess and developing the
bonds of mateship.
Eventually females were included within this environment however their arrival
was greeted with reproach within this masculine domain.
Recent developments have presented women with the option of their own space
which reinforced the ‘necessity’ of secrecy and privacy of the exposure of their body,
their sexuality and their place.
How Architecture Embodies Femininity and Masculinity in Health and
Fitness
Inherently gyms work as open space areas, however the division of this space and
manipulation of the environment defines the overall atmosphere and typical demographic
who use the space. Common characteristics lean towards male or female users.
Curves Enterprise
-Intimate spaces
-Positioning of equipment focuses
on others, conducive with social interaction
-Bright, “healthy” colours
-Circuit based
-Lack of mirrors and external views
-Spaces designated for childminding, beauticians
-Supportive environment, ever present coaches
-Discreet massing and dependant positioning
How Architecture Embodies Femininity and Masculinity in Health and Fitness
The Aggieland Fitness Dome
-Large open space
-Distinct, strong lines and colours
-Linear arrangement of equipment
-Floor-to-ceiling mirrors on prominent walls
-Windows outwardly and inwardly project
-Monolithic massing
-Prominent and independent positioning
How Structure Relates to the Character of Clientele
Curves (Using module of Curves at Blacktown Summit Fitness Centre)
Precast concrete all-purpose construction – floor, walls and ceilings. Basis of
materials most likely based on criteria of economy and efficiency, asserting the modest
nature of the structure.
Services hidden predominantly within the walls
Locality and existence as a dependable unit within fitness complex, making it
humble and visually unobtrusive
- Ceiling height relatively low
Aggieland Fitness Dome
Masonry construction
Shape and magnitude deliberately monumental
Soaring open spaces horizontally and vertically
Independent structure
Sharp change in nature of furnicular form (vertical base) thwarts the basis of a
very efficient structure, as change in direction of load creates an area of high stress.
Therefore, the choice of a dome was probably based on appearance of form over
efficiency and economy.
Overall, it can be surmised that Curves Enterprise and The Aggieland Dome are
quintessentially gender bias establishments.
The atmosphere of each space has distinctively male and female traits. Curves
provides a nurturing, intimate and almost humble experience, where the emphasis is on
physical well being and social interaction. In contrast to this, Aggieland promotes a
climate of stoic and competitive nature. There is a lack of privacy and the user is
independent.
Appealing to a specific gender reinforces the presence of traditional male
and female roles within today’s fitness and health industry. It denotes a need, of each
gender, to feel instinctively comfortable with the activities they partake in and the
environment that they inhabit. However the stark differences, as portrayed by the
examined built forms, could be described as extremist.
Relevance of Gender Specific Architecture in Relation to Aboriginal
Society
Gender distinction in heath and fitness architecture is relevant to Aboriginal
society and daily activity, as it is traditionally distinguished by gender roles.
Implementation of these concepts and execution of masculine and feminine
spaces, as exemplified by Curves and Aggieland, could be appropriated in order to fit the
brief of creating a fitness centre that is congruent with Aboriginal culture.
Mahalia McConkey 200410875
Athalie Moedjoko 200319719
Anna O’Donoughue 200415453