Naga women bodybuilders break gender stereotypes

Bodybuilding among women is gaining momentum in Nagaland and earning a niche for themselves in this hitherto male-dominated sport -- featuring Neithongunuo Rio Achumi and L Yingchu Phom

DIMAPUR — Bodybuilding among women is gaining momentum in Nagaland and female bodybuilders are breaking gender stereotypes and earning a niche for themselves in this hitherto male-dominated sport.

Despite facing numerous challenges and limited opportunities, a decent number of women are venturing into professional bodybuilding. For some including the first Naga female bodybuilding athlete from the state Neithongunuo Rio Achumi, a mother of two, and L Yingchu Phom, the journey has been tough.

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Achumi said her primary motivation to take up bodybuilding was for “aesthetic reasons,” and also her husband’s encouragement to lead a healthy lifestyle.

“I'm very selective and picky about what shows I do, I usually try to pick shows that are organised by International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB), because that's where the best athletes compete. So far I've done seven shows, where I've won one PRO Card (professional card), three gold, one silver, one bronze and a Top 6,” she said.

“I quickly learned that factors such as hair, tanning, competition suit, makeup, nails and posing also play a crucial role in the overall presentation. These elements may seem small and insignificant, but they can make a significant difference in how a competitor is judged.

“In the bikini division, it's not just about having a developed physique; it's also about showcasing femininity and poise through posing. This realisation made me understand the importance of paying attention to every aspect of my appearance and performance on stage. It's not just about being physically fit; it's about presenting yourself as a well-rounded and confident individual. I regret not knowing this earlier, but it was a valuable lesson that helped me improve as an athlete and competitor,” she said.

Achumi shared that when it came to family support, her side of the family was not so supportive, but her husband and his side of the family were very supportive, and still are.

“My friends, the real close ones, have always been very supportive and I would like to extend and remember the kindness of well-wishers who have supported me in word and kind (financially) along the way. They’ve helped me financially too to pursue this profession and celebrate with me in my every win,” she acknowledged.

The only regret she has is not picking up this sport earlier.

A very common misconception about female bodybuilding, according to Achumi, is the belief that strength training and weight lifting are strictly for men.

“This perception has led to the false idea that women should only focus on cardio and light weights in their fitness routines. However, the reality is that women can benefit greatly from strength training and weight lifting, just like men. It helps to build muscle, increase strength, and improve overall health and fitness,” she said

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Another misconception about female bodybuilding is that judges in competitions or on stage are solely focused on judging women based on their physical appearance, particularly on their attractiveness or sexual appeal which, she said, is far from the truth.

“Female bodybuilding is about dedication, hard work and showcasing a strong and fit physique, rather than simply being judged on physical appearance. It is important to debunk these misconceptions and recognise the hard work and commitment of female bodybuilders,” she said.

For Achumi, bodybuilding is more than just about achieving an aesthetic physique. Her favourite aspect of this sport is the mental strength, resolve and discipline it has instilled in her.

However, the most valuable lesson she learned through bodybuilding is that it has not only brought about aesthetic positivity in her life, but it has also brought wisdom and awareness in all aspects of her well-being.

Achumi’s current objective is to compete with the best in the world and her ultimate goal, as she shared, is to earn her Pro Card in the IFBB Pro League. Her advice to novice bodybuilders and competitors is simple – it takes time and dedication to achieve your desired physique and success in the sport.

Read more: Neithongunuo Rio Achumi wins Women Leadership Award

Neithongunuo Rio Achumi wins gold in national bodybuilding, physique championship

Another upcoming female bodybuilder Yingchu Phom shared that since childhood she had always been active in sports and represented her district and the state in athletic events.

“I started working out in the gym to keep myself fit. Slowly I started working as a trainer and my gym owner-cum-coach Moalong Yaden motivated me to compete. So I participated in the first National Physique Committee Nagaland Championship in 2022. After that I kept on competing in various bodybuilding events,” Yingchu said.

“Initially it was considered as men's game. But gradually females have started taking part in bodybuilding in different divisions and now I see that more women are coming up, which is encouraging,” said Yingchu.

“There were some people who criticised me for having a little toned and muscular structure. However it was my decision to be in this field and so I don't regret at all. Although some criticism bothers me, but I take things positively and move on,” she shared.

Since bodybuilding is not included in the Olympic Games, the state government also does not give much importance to the sport and so both female and male bodybuilders face lack of opportunities which, she said, is very discouraging, given that they have been representing the state in national events and brought laurels.

Yingchu, who is preparing to compete in the IBBF’s sports model physique national championship, has sought financial support and encouragement to move ahead with her passion.

Also read: Naga lad Lohe wins gold at World Armwrestling Championship