Bodybuilding as Gender Affirming Care
Summary
Many transmasculine people (transgender people whose gender identity most strongly aligns with masculinity) currently use hypertrophy training (bodybuilding) to masculinize their bodies. However, there are no published studies that talk about this method (that we are aware of), and there is a significant lack of exercises spaces and programs specifically for trans people. In the future we intend to use the results from this study and others like it, to create professionally-supported hypertrophy (bodybuilding) training programs designed specifically for transmasculine people, that are accessible and widely offered.
Each participant will complete a 1.5 hour interview. They will be asked about details of their training, and which specific parts of it help them make their body more masculine. Other questions will ask about gender dysphoria, body image, other transition/gender-affirmation methods, and barriers to/empowering aspects of exercise spaces. All participants may enter into a draw for a gift card provided by the researchers.
Eligibility
Eligible ages: 18 to 100
Accepts healthy participants: Yes
Inclusion criteria:
1) Must be a transgender man or nonbinary transmasculine person.
2) Must have the desire to pass as male or appear more masculine, and be actively working towards this goal.
3) Must have at least 6 months of hypertrophy training (bodybuilding) experience (does not have to be competitive bodybuilding--can be recreational).
4) Must be able to speak English at a basic level, or be able to bring a translator.
5) Must be at least 18 years old.
Exclusion criteria:
See eligibility criteria.
Also: People with active eating disorders are not eligible.
Participate
Fill out the following form if you want to participate in this research
Collection of personal information
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the authority of section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. If
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Additional information
Contact information
finn.frankowski@ucalgary.ca
Principal investigator:
Matthew Jordan
Clinical trial:
No
REB-ID:
REB25-0613