Brett Nemeroff ENC1102H Gabriela Rios How does the structure of the gym coupled with gender stereotypes

impact how people utilize the space? Salvatore, J, and J Marecek. "Gender In The Gym: Evaluation Concerns As Barriers To Women's Weight Lifting." Sex Roles 63.7-8 (n.d.): 556-567. Social Sciences Citation Index. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. "Gender In The Gym" takes a scholarly look at weight lifting habits of particularly young college students and how they differ with consideration of gender. It comments not only on general exercise, but talks specifically of the physical and psychological benefits of developing muscle through weight lifting. Cited sources provide insight on how "well-toned muscle" can increase metabolism and "cushion the body from the effects of illness and slow the normal process of aging." This source also delves into psychological illnesses that are more prevalent in women that in men. For example, disorders such as anorexia come about because "body size and shape contribute disproportionately to self-evaluation." This leads directly to an including study regarding varying fitness goals and how they're associated with each gender. This will prove to be a valuable tool when answering the research question I have chosen. By uncovering what motivates people to utilize the space in question, I will effectively be able to see how said motivations intertwine with social standards and practices. Coupling this with other sources, (notably Reynolds) I will be able to combine these ideas of gender specific tendencies with spatial metaphors within the Recreational and Wellness Center.

Chalabaev, Ana, et al. "The Influence Of Sex Stereotypes And Gender Roles On Participation And Performance In Sport And Exercise: Review And Future Directions." Psychology Of Sport & Exercise 14.2 (2013): 136-144. SPORTDiscus. Web. 18 Mar. 2014. "The Influence Of Sex Stereotypes And Gender Roles On Participation And Performance In Sport And Exercise: Review And Future Directions" examines gender stereotypes from varying points of view including biological, psychological, and psychosocial. What seems to be most useful is the manner in which this source identifies physiological differences among men and women but argues that they are not enough to support sex differences in sport performance and participation. This source also addresses an interesting topic, Stereotype Threat, which states that the mere presence of stereotypes can drastically impact a persons behavior and actions. Neydra Reynolds Source This source discusses what I feel to be the most powerful themes discussed in the course thus far, making it a vital source. Useful topics that it addresses include the three ways in which space is observed (perceived, conceived, and lived) as well as the active nature of space. These metaphors will form the basis for much of my arguments and points throughout the final paper. In order to capitalize on the source material, I will tour the gym, taking note of how spatial metaphors can be applied. Interview of Gym Employee As far as people who attend and use the gym, have you noticed any varying habits based on gender? How does this coincide with gender stereotypes regarding exercise and weight lifting?

With this short interview, I hope to accomplish a few things. First off, I believe this will help the discussion of lived space come full circle. Also, this will give me insight into the people who come into the gym and their habits.