For anyone who grew up in the ‘90s and early 2000s, female bodies were often the subject of discussion in the media. From tabloid magazines scrutinising Hollywood’s biggest stars on their changing body shape, to the countless campaigns and billboards that presented only a narrow ideal of beauty and body size, navigating this period was to constantly see your own flaws as self-worth became tied to the number on a scale or the size on an item of clothing. While it’s been hard to shake such gendered stereotypes concerning body image, in 2022 we now know that strong is beautiful and that our bodies are to be celebrated for what they help us achieve daily, for what they carry us through, and for the strength they give each of us.
It’s something female bodybuilding Sarah Herse practices herself, putting her body through gruelling lifting sessions and training routines all so she can continue to defy all expectation and push herself to new limits as she comes to see just what is possible.
@sarahherse Just discovered the reply to comment with video function! And hit a PR! What a great day! #deadlift #powerlifting #girlswholift ♬ Lemme See – Eric Leon & TroyBoi
While Herse’s physique is one that tells of her passion, it’s also been the subject of constant trolling on TikTok and social media, as cruel trolls have attacked the bodybuilder and CrossFit trainer for her muscular physique. As one TikTok user commented, “Sorry, but if my arms are ever bigger than my boyfriend’s, slit my throat,” comparing Herse to her boyfriend.
Not one to shy away from speaking her truth or take the comments of trolls to heart, Herse and her partner instead poked fun at the comment and proceeded to compare their biceps by measuring them. Herse revealed that her boyfriend’s bicep was 36cm and her own was 27.9 cm. She mimicked wiping sweat from her forehead and breathing in a sigh of relief, but ultimately she made it clear that this is not a concern the couple share and they don’t care about such beauty standards purported by social media or society.
Another troll commented their distaste at Herse’s lifting and questioned whether she was even capable of lifting heavy, safely. They commented: “Enjoy the hernia!”
In response, Herse posted a video of her personal lifting record with a staggering 159 kilograms. “Just discovered the reply to comment with video function! And hit a PR! What a great day!” Herse wrote.
@sarahherse Number 4 is when the magic happens ✨???? @thehydrojug ???? #girlswholift #womensupportingwomen #gymlife ♬ original sound – Sarah Herse
For many, Herse’s body and lifestyle is one that is aspirational as she continues to set her mind to things and achieve her goals in the world of bodybuilding, which has predominantly been a male-dominated sport. Not surprisingly, many of her followers were quick to voice their support and praise such lifts. “I repair hernias every week, I watched this many times. Your form is perfect and you go slow enough for your muscles to engage fully, you got no worries,” commented one.
“Literally only clowns that have never lifted heavy say that,” wrote another.
That Herse’s physique is the subject of trolling suggests there’s still a long way to go when it comes to breaking down stereotypes and social constructs surrounding femininity and beauty standards. But in fighting back and continuing to achieve her goals, Herse shows that nothing is more beautiful than a body that is strong and capable, especially one that helps you achieve your goals.
