Pushing boundaries; challenging stereotypes; breaking records; developing the female fitness industry. Female athletes who are at the forefront of their sport or game are grabbing more of the media spotlight than ever before. These powerhouses are not only doing it for women but in many cases are proving direct competition to their male counterparts.

One in five women are put off sports because of their bras! That's according to recent research in England, but women's issues with finding the right support during exercise and feelings of embarrassment are not confined to the UK alone. However, the solution is to make sure you wear the right clothes for exercise, and that includes undergarments.

Whereas in the past the focus of many health clubs was on men and male fitness, there is a growing interest in women's health. Gone are the days when all women could do was don a pair of ankle warmers and jump into an energetic aerobics dance class. There a growing number of trainers who specialize in female fitness which matches the increase in women becoming interested in improving their fitness levels and working out to enhance not just their physiques but also bring benefits to their whole being.

Stereotypes of women abound in action movies. Women tend to be the characters who are either part of the sub-plot or are frightened and need protecting at every turn. However, in reality, many women have a strong sense of adventure and are willing to try out new ideas and experience new situations, as well as face challenges along the way.

The gap between what male and female athletes can achieve is closing and women it seems are catching up. Certainly in some endurance sports such as swimming, women often seem to fare far better over longer distances than men. When it comes to showcasing athletic abilities with an incredibly challenging fitness journey of power, determination and outstanding prowess, there are many female athletes who endure and have utilized their stamina and endurance to become top of their class as a result.

Ever noticed that your mood and your perspective changes the way you see and interact with the world? When you are feeling negative, like can attract like. That's why a positive mental attitude to getting fit can create the right support network and fitness opportunities.

Every woman wants to be in the best health possible when pregnant, not only for her own health but that of her baby too. A new study in the Gambia suggests that a woman's diet before conception may have an impact on the genetics of her child-to-be; affecting her son or daughter's long term health and the function of the child's genes.

One of the marvellous benefits of a good exercise plan has to be how it promotes a good night's sleep. And for insomniacs out there, or those women with disturbed sleep patterns, the value of getting in some good quality z's cannot be underestimated.

Do you want to tone, tighten, and strengthen? Do you want to look and feel good? Women who want to make positive changes to themselves often turn to the transformational power of a great exercise program. However, while a good workout can definitely have a real impact there are other areas such as diet, lifestyle and attitudes that you can focus on too so that you can really get your life in shape.

Think that only men can aim for and want a sculpted six pack or at least well-defined abs? Think again! More women are using exercise to really tone their body, including their abdominal muscles, rather than aiming simply for slender bodies and focusing solely on weight-loss plans.