Popular Culture Journal Analysis

The article selected, Running Like a Girl: Women’s Running Books and the Paradox of Tradition (Jutel, 2009) was written for the general audience who are interested in running or may read the title and decide to read further. This is determined by the article title that mentions girl and women with regards to running but the text does very well in explaining the paradox that is given in the title. The article does not use some subject specific terms that would confuse the general reader. The only theory that was given was explained in detail so the general reader was able to continue reading without any further research. The theory was that women look at their bodies as fragile unlike men who push themselves to the limit each time. When women try something new they want to insure that they are not going to get hurt before pushing themselves over the hurdle.

The article starts by bringing the theory of women’s mindset that their body is fragile and needs protected (Jutel, 2009). This mindset is proven when the author and her husband bring two groups of runners to a track to jump hurdles. The group of women that were chosen was dedicated, talented women who were experienced runners who enjoyed competitions (Jutel, 2009). The men on the other hand were not interested in running but were doing it because they had to do it. When the groups went to the track, the women ran up to the hurdle and stopped and the men went up to the hurdle and attempted to jump it without fear of failing (Jutel, 2009).

It is also stated that running was not always an accepted sport for women but times have changed that outlook (Jutel, 2009). Running is now an accepted and popular form of exercise for women who want to stay fit and healthy. Books have been written for women runners since the 1960’s and the way they are written has not changed much over the years even though the outlook of women runners has changed (Jutel, 2009). This is due to the fact that the books are written in a way that is reassuring to women that running is a good choice and that the dedication can be accomplished even with the hectic lives that so many lead. Many women are worried that they may bulk up and look masculine if they dedicate themselves to running but it is explained that would not happen unless it was already in their genetic makeup (Jutel, 2009). Many of the books are also written in a first person aspect that gives the reader the feeling that they are friends with the author (Jutel, 2009). This is done because most of the authors are women whose life had been changed because of running. The icon of the kitchen table surrounded by women talking is mentioned as another connection that many are able to make with the author. They are also able to make the table connection in the real world with other companions that they come across in their journey of incorporating running into their life (Jutel, 2009).

The article does an excellent job of detailing possible challenges or concerns that are common among women runners. The first is the idea that they will become more masculine which was quickly overcome by detailing that it is the genetic makeup and also by pointing out that running will actually help slim a woman and that to avoid bulky claves just run heel toe style. Another concern is the spouse that may not like the new habit. This is overcome by pointing out that the woman must ask herself exactly why her husband is upset. When choosing running partners it is not the best to pick only one male running partner. By inviting the husband to go with the new found runner, it may bring them closer together.

The style of the article was very smooth and easy to read. It broke down the sections with heading and transitioned into the next section easily. Each section used terminology that is understood by the general public and if a theory or new term was applied it was explained well. Each new idea was introduced, explained, examples given, and then summarized before the section ended.

The main idea that will be taken from the article is that although the paradox of the woman becoming more accepted in the world due to strength or agility, but is still being concerned and viewing herself as fragile. This may continue through the years due to the woman wanting to still feel pretty and wanting not to disregard the other important aspects of her life such as career, husband, family, and friends. Those aspects are the girl that is inside every woman whether she is running, cooking, cleaning, working, or any other job that she may hold proudly.

Works Cited

Jutel, A. (2009, December). Running Like a Girl: Women's Running Books and the Paradox of Tradition. Retrieved July 28, 2010, from Database The Journal of Popular Culture: http://journals.ohiolink.edu/ejc/article.cgi?issn=00223840&issue=v42i0006&article=1004_rlagwrbatpot