Are muscular women, especially those with large muscles, considered to be imitating men?
Engaging in sports is permissible for both men and women, and the fundamental principle concerning customs is permissibility unless explicitly prohibited by religious law. Therefore, if a woman's muscle strengthening does not transform her from a feminine appearance to a masculine one, it is permissible. However, if it leads to muscle hypertrophy and a woman departing from feminine characteristics to masculinity and an unfeminine appearance, then it is forbidden, as it falls under the category of imitating men, which the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, cursed the one who does it. The prohibition is further emphasized if this is achieved through the consumption of male hormones.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/21470