A Feminist Phenomenological Analysis of the Lived Experiences of Young Adult Filipino Women Gym‑goers in Bakal Gyms

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

• Jose Gabriel P. Dungca, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
• Kristan Lloyd R. Gomez, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
• Thomas Vito R. Ifurung, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
• Redentor Daniel O. Ulsano, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Gender, Human Development, and the Individual (GHI)

School Name

De La Salle University

Track or Strand

Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Miranda, Janeson M.

Start Date

23-6-2026 3:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2026 5:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

DLSU Manila Campus (In-person) - Don Enrique T. Yuchengco Hall - Y306

Abstract/Executive Summary

The social environment of gym spaces has been predominantly shaped by male norms, and existing literature documents the varied experiences of women who train in these environments. Research on bakal gyms, a type of affordable neighborhood gym widespread across the Philippines characterized by iron weights, tight-knit communities, and lower-cost access, remains largely absent from academic discourse. Hence, this study explored the lived experiences of young adult Filipino women who train in bakal gyms, examining how these experiences shape their sense of identity, belonging, and self-worth, and what personal and navigation strategies they employ to achieve a positive self-concept within these spaces. A qualitative phenomenological design was adopted, utilizing semi-structured interviews with twelve (n=12) young adult Filipino women aged 18 to 26 who regularly train in bakal gyms across Luzon, Philippines. Data were analyzed through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, integrating Feminist Phenomenology and Social Identity Theory. Three major themes emerged: a supportive and prosocial bakal gym community characterized by peer support and a sustained sense of belonging; gendered experiences and expectations marked by misconceptions, stereotypes, and negative experiences; and a focus on empowerment through fitness amidst challenges. While bakal gyms are typically perceived as hypermasculine and intimidating environments, participants largely experienced them as socially supportive spaces where confidence, motivation, and well-being are actively constructed through relationships, coping strategies, and personal motivation. This study contributes to localized literature on gym spaces, revealing that bakal gyms are nuanced environments where gendered challenges and stereotypes coexist with genuine community and belonging.

Keywords

bakal gym; feminist phenomenology; gym spaces; social identity theory; young adult Filipino women

Initial Consent for Publication

no

Statement of Originality

yes