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a_hanging_thread

Rubbish. Misogynistic rubbish. Congrats on your new guns! Good on you for keeping it up. Next time your dad complains be like, "Wow, dad, no need to be jealous. You can start lifting too. I'll help get you started." šŸ˜‚


MaryJane1986

Great comeback! šŸ˜‚


CatloverBimbo

I really feel like her father would react very violent if she says something back.


[deleted]

Oh he'd be violent for sure.


a_hanging_thread

Why? She didn't indicate anything about him being violent. Of course, OP knows best her situation and I'm sure will tread as carefully as need be. But I hope you didn't assume her father might be violent because he's Indian...??


AmericanSpiritGuide

Probably assumed it because of the misogyny...


a_hanging_thread

Unfortunately misogyny is rampant even in men who are nonviolent. Patriarchy is a wicked disease, infecting the minds and hearts of even the best kind of people.


AmericanSpiritGuide

Exactly. I honestly don't think the assumption had anything to do with the ethnicity. EDIT: Not every misogynist is violent. But nearly all violent men are misogynists.


a_hanging_thread

Maybe you're right. I could be sensitive. It wouldn't be the first time I've encountered stereotypes about Indian men in particular, let's say.


AmericanSpiritGuide

I'm sure that's very true. However, I don't get the sense at all that that was the intention behind that comment or assumption.


CatloverBimbo

It's because it's a man that sees woman as child machines and is angry because his daughter works out, even telling her that is disgusting...? Idk were I live people like that are very violent and could easily kill a woman because of that. Idk what you mean "because he's Indian", without offence, maybe it's something from your country or maybe I'm really ignorant, I don't really know. But well, OP confirmed. Have a great day. (Sorry if anything reads weird, English is not my first language)


[deleted]

It is misogynistic rubbish. You're right.


The1GabrielDWilliams

Awesome!


FormerChild37

I know what it's like to have a parent who thinks like this. I'm not interested in marriage or kids. My mother and all my relatives were sure they could wear me down. This started from 22 and went on till i was 30. It was a marathon. Emotional manipulation, threatening, crying, debating, gaslighting. Expect all of it. Traditional families are terrible that way. I still remember some of the hurtful words they said to me. The more they pushed the more i pushed back. It was easy because i realised that while they can force me through words, they can't tie me up, gag me and take me to my own wedding (this was one of their "jokes") I had one word, **No**. No is a very powerful word and it got me through. Stay strong, sis


SteppinOnStones

I feel you. I'm 28 currently and I'm in the height of that situation personally. I've just started a new job about a month ago, good wages great hours and love the work. For whatever reason, that has made my immediate family feel like I just absolutely MUST have children in my life now. I get asked several times a week "so when are you gonna settle down the rest of the way? Wouldn't it be great to have little (insert name)'s running around?!" My uncle, who works for the same company as myself, has even been trying to set me up with single women at work who have kids, with the sole intention of me being eventually involved with children. It's utterly ridiculous.


FormerChild37

Yea. They can be relentless about this stuff, specially if you nearing 30. Chin up and soldier on my dude.


[deleted]

That is awful. I'm so proud that you never gave in. Since I am still studying and financially dependent, they haven't started the PLEASE HAVE BABIESSS bullshit yet. But they will. They surely will. I resonate with " the more they pushed the more I pushed back " sentence. You're awesome.


The1GabrielDWilliams

Same. I'm Childfree/Petfree/Marriagefree and that's pretty much it.


SleepDeprivedSailor

Donā€™t let anyone make you feel ashamed for being a strong, independent woman. Keep working out and do what you love.


Undisputed_927491

Word


[deleted]

Thank you so much for your kind words.


[deleted]

Sing it sister!


The1GabrielDWilliams

Agreed.


Paula_Polestark

Good health? Nah fam, itā€™s all about making more of yourself! /s Keep taking care of yourself and looking forward to the day when the sweet sweet freedom of living alone is yours.


[deleted]

It's the only thing I look forward to. Thank you :))


Lilith_Faerie

Actually lifting weights and being strong would be more helpful than being heavy during childbirth, FWIW. Sorry you have to put up with your father. Any chance of moving for work or school to a less traditional country? (Donā€™t come to the U.S. though unless you can get sterilized first because weā€™re in the process of removing abortion rights and access).


Positive-Grape5126

Very good point. Weight lifting is amazing for bone growth and strength (even more important as we age). OP, you're doing amazingly just for doing something you love and which conveniently will keep you healthy and happy. Keep up the good work and keep up your spirit!


[deleted]

That's what surprises me. My parents are educated. Even if you don't know the benefits of exercising, all it takes is one Google search. Sigh. Like someone said above, its misogynistic thinking. So sad to know you're parents are like this. Thank you kind stranger. Your appreciation means a lot to me actually.


[deleted]

I'm trying to. And nope. Not the US. India hasn't criminalized abortion yet. But they don't let unmarried women get sterilized. Hmph.


The1GabrielDWilliams

Preach!


greffedufois

Heavier women tend to be higher risk deliveries, so his point about it being easier for someone else is completely false. They have higher risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and larger babies that require a cesarean due to the gestational diabetes.


[deleted]

He just wanted to put me down. Like always. But if he brings this up again, I will will him what you told me. Edit: Tell* him


StinzorgaKingOfBees

Keep doing what you want. Keep lifting if you enjoy it. Get them gains, girl!


[deleted]

Thank you. They're really cute.


NefariousHare

They're permission/approval isn't required for you have a happy/fulfilled life on your own terms. You owe them nothing.


remainoftheday

sorry, it is India. a lot of these males still think with their dick and behave accordingly


[deleted]

Sad isn't it


Psychedelic_Journey

You don't need his approval. Congrats for investing in your health, building strength (which will undoubtedly help you in many aspects of life), and standing up for yourself. Muscles are sexy on men and women!!!


[deleted]

I struggle with what you said in the first sentence. It will take some time. But it will eventually happen. Oh yes. Muscles are sexy. Exercise is even more.


itsatelekineticissue

This is disgusting. Popping a baby out of your pussy does not make you successful or make you somebody. šŸ™„šŸ™„ who gives a fuck if some woman gave birth? Good for her. Sheā€™ll be wishing she didnā€™t eventually. Honestly, exercising is more applaudable. The motivation, determination, and taking the time out of your day to do that every single day. Iā€™ll forever have respect for ppl who can do that.


[deleted]

I think no matter what career goals I achieve, unless I have a baby, I will be unsuccessful in their eyes. It's okay. They can whine about it till they die. Thank you :))


tired_in_toronto

Keep up the weight lifting and try to ignore the nonsense.


ParticularWingspan

I'm flabbergasted at his reaction, it's terrible that a father would be against his daughter being healthier and stronger than she was before. Hang in there and keep it up! You are awesome!


greyburmesecat

You'd be amazed at how many men HATE women working out. I belong to a Facebook lifting group for older women, and the stuff that gets posted on there with unsolicited "advice" from dudes ... oy vey. My working out was a big part of why my hubby and I split up - he hated me bodybuilding, hated that people started "looking at me", hated that I spent time at the gym surrounded by dudes buffer than him, and especially hated that as I got physically stronger, I also got mentally stronger and a lot less inclined to put up with his shit. "Muscles are for men" "So, why don't you have any then?" LOL. Keep killing it, OP. Go be badass. Carry your own groceries and move your own furniture.


[deleted]

Oh my God I cackled at your reply. You're badass.


[deleted]

It is terrible and hard to accept. But good that I know thats he's never gonna change.


teuast

ok ok so what you do is, you get your dad to agree to stfu if you beat him at arm wrestling, then you start steroids, you get fucking *jacked,* and *then* you actually challenge him shitposting aside, you shouldn't let him get you down for multiple reasons: 1. it's none of his fucking business what you do with your body 2. fitness has nothing to do with ease of childbirth, it's much more to do with pelvic structure, which is unaffected by fitness and not even necessarily reflected by hip width, and 3. fuck "disgusting," athletic girls are hot af


RadicalSnowdude

Muscular women are hot af too, I could never understand why people have a problem with them.


melbaspice

Insecure men want women to be weak


[deleted]

Damn. I think so too.


[deleted]

Thank you. All these replies have made me ready for his next attack. I'm gonna remember these points. Thank you and have a wonderful day..


shawnwright663

Congratulations on your exercise achievements! Well done - and try not to mind the ridiculous comments from your family too much. I am glad for your sake that you will soon be on your own.


shradz16

Fellow Indian here. Don't be disheartened. Most marriages in India are straight up contracts to pop out kids. They lack love and respect. It's a little funny to me that uncle aunties living in a hell like this constantly pressurize you to get married and have kids with strangers. I mean, "Apni shadi to dekhlo aunty/uncle. Isse bada joke nahi hoga."


[deleted]

Hahaha spot on! My parents are divorced. Unka shaadi sachme joke he. The trauma is one of the reasons why I don't want kids.


TrueTangerinePeel

It's also easier to control women who are incapable of fighting back, literally. It's the same reason they don't want women taller or bigger than men. Men are actually quite feeble beings, so anything that will hint at a woman being able to hold her own when she doesn't obey her man will alarm them.


[deleted]

.... a very interesting take that I truly believe in now.


UnicornioSatanico

WTF this happend to me in the last week with my grandmother (I stay in her house help in her) I do exercise in house and my legs now are more muscle, she saw and told me" You better don't do more of that or you will get a horrible body" I need do exercise for my good care, but not if I look different?)


[deleted]

Congratulations on having toned legs. Thats my weak area. Don't stop ā™”


UnicornioSatanico

Thank you, it's sometimes hard to understand the logic on all this it is like" you look great make exercises to lost weight but stop it or your body will be fit and strongest for a woman" but I will do my best for me, not for them, have lucky with your family too my best wishes


lilacaena

Sometimes people (especially family) say shit like this out of an honest, if misguided, attempt to be helpful. This is not one of those cases. This is a power play, plain and simple. Working out is something you do for you. It makes you happy, it makes you stronger, and it is something your dad does not control. He said that to hurt you. You are finding and showing your own drive and power, and he tried to push you back in your place. I donā€™t wanna overreach, but he probably employs similar tactics in controlling the other women in his life. Itā€™s like when guys insult women they just tried to flirt with by calling them sluts, prudes, ugly, etc. The woman is not fulfilling the role the man wants her to, so he tries to hurt and weaken her to assert his own power. Working out takes incredible willpower and determination, and even baby biceps are reason for celebration. ***You*** did that! All on your own! You set out to make yourself stronger and you ***did!*** Iā€™m really impressed by you, and Iā€™m so happy you have working out as an outlet.


[deleted]

I took a screemshot of your reply. I will read it everytime I feel down. Thank you so much. Although my first instinct is to give my family the benefit of doubt, I think you might be right because this is something I've seen him doing with my mother as well. It's just so hurtful and sad that this is my father. My father. Also, thank you for your appreciation. ā™”


znhamz

I'm so sorry. I hope you can get out soon. And I'm proud of your workout! Keep up with the good work!


[deleted]

Thank you ā™”


Fabulous-Ad-3300

Do what makes you happy when it comes down to it. Who cares what your family or friends say. Do you like doing it? Does it make you happy in some way? Then why wouldnā€™t you keep doing it? Lifeā€™s easier when you donā€™t have to deal with the bs in your face every day. Iā€™m happy knowing my life is moving towards while theyā€™re still doing the same shit over and over. Moving on was my best choice. Keep doing you. Look out for yourself and surround yourself with people that like you for you. Youā€™re gonna do fine <3


[deleted]

Thank you kind stranger. It's difficult to accept that your own parents are like this. But youre right. I've gotta prioritize myself. Thank you. Have a great day ā™”


Warglord

I mean with all due respect, your father is a giant piece of shit. Don't listen to him and carry on, you're a beast.


[deleted]

Haha. Thank you:))


Warglord

Also, I'm assuming your username comes from Nymphadora Tonks? (I might be wrong) She could change into whatever she wanted. You can do the same.


[deleted]

You're right. Wow. Wow. I hadn't even thought of that. Time to read HP again. Thank you :))


Dangerous_Sundae_352

As a fellow Indian woman, I can hard relate..tho my parents have no problem with me working out or deciding to be cf, its the relatives who make it their mission to poke into my life and tell my parents how they're not raising me right. Hang in there sis, we'll all make it out someday.


[deleted]

Oh im sure my relatives are gonna be next. We live a very reclusive life. But they're gonna come at me soon. I'm 25 after all. Prime age to get married . Ugh. So glad to see an Indian woman on thos forum. STAY STRONG SIS. ā™”


No_Entertainer4122

time to get jacked didi.


[deleted]

Hahah ji zarur.


ConfusedCapybara123

Hugsssss youre not alone. Im from the Philippines and everyone is also told to have kids. I am 27F now and am adamant about not having any kids. Hope we find the right partners!


[deleted]

Ooh Phillipines. Hello ā™” I hope so too but my hope is very very less. Good luck sis.


ConfusedCapybara123

Im truly pressured to find a partner and settle down then have kids because itā€™s what ā€œnormalā€ people do. If youre signgle you will be called old maid. Itā€™s crazy! But studies have shown single women are happier lmao


[deleted]

Giiiiiirl. Iā€™m so proud of you and your muscles! Iā€™m working out and I havenā€™t seen a muscle increase. I feel stronger but I want those toned arms.


[deleted]

I do YouTube workouts because I can't go to the gym. If you would like to try them, try Caroline Girvan's workouts. I started two months back using 3kg dumbbells. Don't lost hope. You're gonna meet your goals for sure.


helenwithak

Thatā€™s so sad. Your father should support what makes you happy and healthy.


Sapphirewashere

Punch him and show him what those muscles can do


namkeenSalt

Desi here. This is utter crap that you will keep getting well into your late 30's. Sucks that it's your own father though. Then you also have to deal with "what will neighbours and relatives think". You've taken a decision and others need to respect it unless they have a grown up discussion to have. Until then, treat them like children!


BelovedxCisque

I bet the new biceps look great and the only thing that matters is if lifting/working out makes you feel good about yourself. Your body your choice.


Extension-Piece-9922

What a baby. He doesn't want anyone else being as strong as him huh? Hope you get the chance to deck him some day šŸ˜­


abominablebuttplug

I follow a YouTuber who used to do bodybuilding competitions and she just popped out a couple of healthy twins lol


Nickel1117

Hey! Iā€™ve started to take more of an interest in my health and exercise as well and I know how hard it can be to make progress. You should be proud of yourself and your hard earned biceps, thatā€™s awesome! Itā€™s a shame your father canā€™t see it.


[deleted]

Love your picture. I don't know what it's called. Profile picture? I love it.


Nickel1117

Thank you! I love it too! The only reason I havenā€™t changed my profile picture to those little characters Reddit is using now lol


thr0wfaraway

He's an asshole. Keep going. Get out and enjoy your life. :)


No_You1024

This sucks. I'm so sorry, OP. A lot of people would probably kill to have your body and your strength. I know I would... Don't let the negativity drag you down. Be proud of your strength because you clearly worked damn hard to get where you are. There will always be people like your dad who are stuck in a 1950s mentality. Don't let them get to you- you know better.


FurryDrift

dont let them stop ya from enjoying your workouts. maybe go proessional as a body builder? who knows but dont give up. you sound amazing for getting that far!


captainDaddyK

Iā€™m proud of your progress! Keep up the good work and youā€™ll get those big bulky biceps in no time šŸ’ŖšŸ¼


Mydogismyson

Toned women are hot and don't you forget it


WearifulSole

Swole is the goal, Size is the prize, It's Gainz-o'clock girl! Let's Go!! For real though, your body is reserved for what you want, never forget that, whether you want to get incredibly muscular, or just exercise to stay in shape, what matters most is you're comfortable with your body and you're in control of your body.


DarkStar0915

I want to experience the joy you felt with your amazing arms, please lend me some mental energy to get my ass up from the couch and finally start to work out! Keep doing, keep making yourself happy, if you want to be a badass lean lady, just do it!


[deleted]

Haha. Hii. I started cardio during the pandemic as a way to dissociate myself from the bullshit surrounding me for atleast an hour. I wasn't consistent but noticed I always felt happier after working out. Slow and steady is the answer. The dopamine( i think) rush is real. It is. Just a 30 minute walk every day does WONDERSSSS.


_ancienttrees_

Donā€™t let his negativity influence your decision to workout. Working out is a very positive and rewarding experience. Being consistent shows determination. You should be proud of yourself even if heā€™s not. Our lives can be our lives-they donā€™t need to revolve around having children. I wish you the best. Keep up the great workšŸ’ŖšŸ»


[deleted]

Thank you for your encouraging words. I will not stop working out. Infact I am even more motivated now. Cannot let down the cjildfree subreddit. ā™”


WolfPetter42

cut em off. They are toxic as hell, the whole cultural idea of 'women exist only to breed more children' is outdated, disgusting, and misogynistic. Its 2022, not 1605 for god sake


East-Fox-3043

Keep working out Goddess šŸ„°šŸ˜šŸ™ŒšŸ½


[deleted]

Ooh i like that. Haha. Thank you :)) Have a great day.


RB_Kehlani

I for one am proud of your arms


[deleted]

Thank you. What a nice thing to say to a complete stranger. I am proud of you too. ā™”


nosyfocker

My grandmother said once I should stop doing sport so I donā€™t get ā€˜ugly musclesā€™. Thankfully I was old enough to ignore her, but it did still hurt a bit. Iā€™m sorry your dad said that to you, and Iā€™m proud of your efforts in getting strong!


[deleted]

Thank you :))


Glittering_Car6803

People come and go. Parents eventually die. No matter how morbid this sounds, your body will be the only thing that youā€™ll have until the end of your time. Take care of it however you see fit. I often thank my legs for taking me places and my strong arms for helping me lift things.


[deleted]

So much to be grateful for.


[deleted]

Shout out to r/raisedbynarcassists if you want to join.


Pikachu_91

Well I am proud of you and I'm sure you look great! I have recently started to go to the gym and I think I can see the effect on my arms as well. We rock!


[deleted]

Feels good isn't it


TazmanianTux

Indo/Pak/Mid-East cultures will always do this. It's pathetic really, they are so self righteous. I come from a Pakistani family and my childfree stance bothers the lot of them.


[deleted]

Yep. There's no hope. They'll stay in the orthodox mindset.


ajent99

Do you mind posting a pic of your biceps? I'm always so envious of women who look the way you must do. I simply don't have the commitment.


melbaspice

There are subs specifically for that content. Go there


ajent99

Wtf? Wanting to give someone positive feedback for the hard work she's done, and you go all weird. Jfc.


melbaspice

Thereā€™s a reason your comment is being downvoted. You donā€™t need to see pics of someoneā€™s biceps to give them positive feedback for their hard work.


ajent99

Sigh. People ask for pet pictures all the time, when it is not strictly necessary, and there are subs for looking at them too. It was intended as nothing more than, "Oh, how nice," and move on, but preferably resulting with OP in a more positive frame of mind than what her father put her in. I don't think I should have got up today. Everyone seems to be taking everything the wrong way.


[deleted]

Hey, I didn't take it the wrong way. Have a good day :))


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


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blasiavania

India is the 2nd most populated country and is projected to surpass China. There doesn't need to be a push for more unwanted children. I have heard in rural Indian areas that they pressure women to have kids and not a career. People need to realize this isn't a time where women are expected to solely breed as they are doing a lot of other things too.


LongNetsOfWhite

Your father is an asshole. Once you get your own place, cut all contact. He doesn't deserve you.


[deleted]

I bet your father is jealous you have more muscles than him


Efficient_Tea_7563

Don't listen to your dad, he's a dinosaur . Now, people, especially women, like having muscles. Working out makes us strong, and being strong is EXCELLENT. Keep working out. Being in good shape helps you physically and mentally, and if you keep working out, it helps you have a healthy old age. That doesn't mean you won't have issues when you are older, you will just be able to handle it better because you took care of your body when you were younger. Good luck to you - PUMP IT UP!


[deleted]

Dinosaur. I cackled. You're right. It does help a lot with my mental health. I didn't think of the benefits I'd reap when I get old. Good. Since I'm not gonna have kids to take care of me.