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One fitness trainer, Vixer Ber, who owns a strength studio in Bondi, publicly labeled the outdoor gym as a "bro area" full of testosterone. She noted that many women and older residents avoid the area, preferring to train indoors at traditional gyms. Her critique reflects a broader narrative that certain outdoor fitness spaces are male-dominated and potentially uninviting for diverse demographics.
The Cultural Significance of the Bondi Fitness Scene
The outdoor gym's culture is an integral part of Bondi's identity. It represents the laid-back, muscular, confident vibe that many associate with the beachside suburb. The heavily muscular men, often clad in Speedos or board shorts and performing their routines with pride, epitomize a certain aesthetic and social ideal.