Kim Julian

Despite many advances, gender bias continues to play a role in the workplace, undermining the efforts of women everywhere. Male CEOs still outnumber females in top executive positions and this trend is seen in entry-level jobs as well. Below we will look at a few of the key challenges women at work face. 

Pregnancy

Many pregnant women are negatively affected by pregnancy discrimination. However, studies have shown that the unborn child is also affected and may experience negative effects such as a low Apgar score at birth, low birth weight and premature labor.

Pregnancy discrimination discourages a lot of women from trying to start a family. Those who have taken the leap have been on the receiving end of biased behavior, stereotyped views of women in the workplace, isolation and loneliness, denied benefits or reduced income, and fewer opportunities for promotion. This form of discrimination targets pregnant women, those who give birth, and those who seek to become pregnant.

Over the period of ten years, more than half a million women filed claims of pregnancy discrimination. The cases keep on increasing and have not been lessened by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. Employers are guilty, in many instances, of discriminating against women in contravention of the Act.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is rife and this is emphasized by the #MeToo movement where multiple women report that they have been victims of this terrifying experience in the workplace.

The behavior that falls under sexual harassment can range from inappropriate comments to physical attempts to coerce compliance and threats of job loss. Although the law is there to protect women, in reality, reporting a case of sexual harassment can see a victim being ostracized by their colleagues and denied advancement. The game of victim-blaming turns the victim into the guilty party. They are further criticized for dressing inappropriately, not nipping the advance in the bud, or for encouraging the perpetrator.

Only one fifth of one percentage of cases are actually reported. Women are too afraid of the consequences of going public to file a claim of sexual harassment. Annually, according to statistics, there a more than five million incidents that occur in America.

Gender Pay Discrepancies

Gender pay discrepancies are commonly known as the gender pay gap. As a woman, you have probably been exposed to gender bias in the workplace, or heard of other cases involving those you know. You would also have read about it on social media and in other news sources. Being at the top of your career is no exception. Women CEOs often earn a tenth of what their male counterparts do. In fact, for each dollar a man receives as income, the women in the same position and company may make as little as 82 cents. At the rate that this has been ‘improving’, it will take just short of a hundred years for parity to be achieved, according to the WEF (World Economic Forum). 

This is just a short list of the ways women are discriminated against, purely for their gender. 

There is nothing like getting twice as much for your money. These fun hobbies let you make new friends, learn new skills, and burn calories. Pick up one, two, or all four to get fit while having fun.

Discover the Joy of Dancing to Drop Extra Pounds

Dancing is not only a fun and enjoyable activity but also an excellent way to shed those extra pounds. Whether you prefer high-energy Zumba classes, hip-hop routines, or elegant ballroom dances, dancing engages your entire body, increases your heart rate, and burns a significant number of calories. 

The joy of moving to the music and learning new dance steps adds an element of excitement to your workout routine. Whether you choose to join a dance class or simply groove to your favourite tunes at home, dancing offers a dynamic and engaging way to stay fit while having a blast.

Feel the Burning Power of Pilates

Pilates uses gentle, repeated exercises to build up core strength, increase your flexibility, and make you more agile. By combining controlled movements with proper breathing techniques, Pilates helps tone and sculpt your muscles while improving posture and alignment. 

This can do wonders for your core, and help you get any area of your body in a tighter, firmer condition. For new mums, postnatal Pilates in Bristol is a great way to regain your shape and your confidence. Click here to learn more about private Pilates classes in Bristol that any mum can use to develop their Pilates skills and get their body in the shape they want.

Martial Arts for Mums to Kick Calories to the Kerb

Martial arts offer mums a unique and empowering way to burn calories while learning self-defence techniques. Karate, taekwondo, kickboxing, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu all give you a high-intensity workout that pushes every muscle and tones the whole body. 

Kick, punch, and roll your way to a slimmer shape, while giving yourself the strength and confidence to take on all comers. Martial arts techniques not only improve your cardiovascular fitness but also agility and mental focus, helping to relieve stress. Enrol in a martial arts class, and you might meet other mums unleashing their inner warriors.

Mindful Movement Using Tai Chi and Qi Gong for Fitness

Tai Chi and Qi Gong are ancient Chinese practices that combine deep breathing, meditation and gentle movements. These mindful movement exercises promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. While they may not have the same intensity as high-impact workouts, Tai Chi and Qi Gong provide a low-impact form of exercise that engages your muscles, enhances balance, and increases flexibility. 

The slow, flowing movements of Tai Chi and the rhythmic breathing patterns of Qi Gong help improve circulation and promote a sense of calm and mindfulness. Tai Chi and Qi Gong make the perfect complement to your fitness routine and offer a holistic approach to staying active and maintaining a healthy body and mind.

Shrink your waistline without hurting your bottom line. These money-saving and fat-burning hobbies are a gift that keeps on giving. Make friends, lose weight, and then take your new skills to the streets.