"In the second part of our special series, Same But Different, we look at how body positivity can't be measured on a scale and how often the weight of societal expectation is a heavy one for women in sport to bear"
"When it comes to body image, the weight of expectation and comparison can be a heavy burden to bear. In sport, just as in life, it seems girls and women are battling with the idea of being observed."
"You have to be a certain weight."
Body positivity cannot be measured on a scale. Societal expectations about body size and shape place a heavy burden on girls and women involved in sport. Constant observation and comparison create persistent pressure to meet perceived athletic and aesthetic standards. Weight expectations influence selection, coaching attitudes, uniform choices, and athlete self-worth. The pressure can harm mental health, reduce participation, and distort performance priorities. Achieving inclusive sporting environments requires rejecting narrow size ideals, promoting diverse role models, and prioritizing health, ability, and enjoyment over appearance. Supportive coaching, media representation, and policy changes can reduce the weight of expectation and foster genuine body acceptance.
Read at Independent
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