Defying Expectations: 12 Activities That Challenge Male Gender Norms

Never has it been more challenging to define the term “man.” But, seriously, guys can't seem to agree on what makes a guy a guy. Is it mowing a lawn? Changing a carburetor? Taking shots at Bambi for sport?

It turns out that many activities frequently associated with manhood aren't even that popular amongst most men. Take a look at some of the stereotypically “manly” things men don't enjoy doing. 

1. Lawn Care

It turns out that millions (dare I say billions?) of men are wholly content, never sitting on the neon yellow leather of a John Deere lawnmower. The aroma of freshly cut grass does absolutely nothing for them.

2. Home Improvement

Many guys keep the handyman on speed dial. Their fondness for Home Improvement starts and ends at Tim Allen.

3. Hunting

I'm sure bagging that five-point buck was as transformative as you claim. I'm going to take your word for it.

Most guys who go “hunting” also go “waiting,” “laying in the mud,” and “not seeing a thing for seven straight hours.” That was fun. Let's never do it again.

4. Cars

Changing oil. Changing tires. You are changing the dangling dice that sway pendulously from the rearview mirror. You can keep it all.

Many guys have no interest in cars beyond basic questions like “Does it run?” and “How does it smell”? Car buffs are in their echelon of manliness, but most dudes want to drive.

5. Gentlemen's Clubs

Um, guys, where are the gentlemen? While being a man can be tricky to define, being a gentleman is not. Gentleman's Club patrons don't exactly fit that bill. 

6. Fishing

Fishing is, too often, like hunting. Frequently uneventful, slightly enhanced by several cold beers, and potentially miserable if you don't have good company.

7. Watching Sports

Without indulging in the “sports ball” cliches, the truth is that many guys don't have the time to watch sports on television. Going to a game can be an exciting use of time, especially if it's a date. But sitting down and dedicating multiple hours to watching grown men play a game that, in the grand scheme, has zero bearing on one's life? If that sounds crazy, you're not alone.

8. Golf

You see, the thing about enjoying golf is…booze. If you don't “like” golf, you're probably overthinking it. Crack another Coors Light and hack away.

9. Fantasy Sports

Like watching sports, some guys find managing a roster of athletes unappealing. Come on, guys, it's like you are the team's general manager! Don't you get it?! One man's fantasy is another man's nightmare.

10. Picking up Chicks

Perhaps the most traditionally masculine activity of all, picking up chicks isn't for every guy. To each their own. 

11. Guns

For obvious reasons, not everyone is thrilled with firearms. Those who enjoy hunting may not necessarily enjoy firing away at a target. 

12. Whipping Each Other With Rolled-up Towels

Wait, other guys don't enjoy that? News to me.