Hey Jen,
I don't know what all the bashing is about. You don't hold yourself out as a model or figure girl so what's with all the hating thrown at you? You are a powerlifter, that's your thing. You will have to look a certain way to achieve an optimum performance level in that particular sport. Each discipline requires different preparation and a different physique. You stated you weren't at the Arnold as a "model" so that should be the end of it.
The truth is, you being a girl, you can get laid anytime you want and maybe that pisses some guys off. It doesn't require you looking like Christine Pomponio-Pate or Monica Brandt. In the end, almost all of us on this site are not satisfied with how we look and aspire to a higher level. We are all limited in different degrees to achieving our ideal physique and that causes a great deal of inner conflict. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that all of us on this site have some internal battle we are fighting. I first joined this site to hear how others deal with some of the same things I feel frustrated about.
It always takes me by surprise when the unwarranted bashing comes up but that is much of the attraction to this site. The guys, for the very most part, are very witty and computer talented. Additionally, given that America is the land of free opinion, we shouldn't suppress divergent opinions in a hasty manner.
I am always glad to read your insider perspective and appreciate the photos as I didn't care to attend the Arnold. I wish you success in your endeavor to out lift all of us on this site.
Harley
