"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 expectation and comparison impose a heavy burden on girls' and women's body image, especially within sport. Constant observation increases self-scrutiny and amplifies pressure to conform to narrow physical ideals. Many athletes internalize the belief that they must reach or maintain a specific weight to belong, perform, or be accepted. These pressures distort perceptions of health, worth, and capability, making authentic body acceptance difficult. Reducing harm requires acknowledging subjectivity in body ideals and creating supportive environments that resist one-size-fits-all standards.
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