Body Beyond Beauty

According to Science Direct, over 60% of adolescent female athletes in aesthetic sports feel dissatisfied with their bodies. Sixty percent. That’s a substantial number, yet it’s a topic that rarely gets discussed and it shouldn’t be that way. 

Aesthetic sports that are usually studied are commonly rhythmic gymnastics, ballet, dancing, cheerleading, artistic gymnastics and others. These sports have been classified as having a higher risk of eating disorder behavior and/or exposure when practicing (Berengüí et al., 2023). 

Athletes often experience this because of pressure from coaches, judges, friends, and external factors that hurt them and their mental health. Take rhythmic gymnastics, the sport I once practiced: the way you looked influenced the way you moved and the grace, rhythm, and artistry along with it. So, that was already enough pressure on someone to be the “skinniest” or “smallest” version of themselves. 

However, beyond the physical factors, the mental and emotional toll it causes is even greater. With the need to look a certain way, it often leads to an unhealthy relationship with food and disorder eating behaviors. In the U.S. alone up to 42% of female athletes regardless of age have or do experience ED’s (Becker 2023).

And, I’m sorry to say, but this is absolutely not normal or should be accepted. No girl should have to suffer alone and deal with the insecurity and pain that their sport may cause them. 

This is why it’s so important for coaches, parents, and organizations to prioritize mental health and body positivity over appearance. Athletes should be supported to focus on skill, strength, and artistry, not on a number on a scale or how “perfect” their body looks. 

Programs that promote healthy eating habits, open discussions about body image, and access to mental health professionals can make a real difference in the lives of young athletes. 

Ultimately, the goal should be a culture where performance and passion for the sport come before appearance, and where no athlete feels ashamed of their body or pressured to harm themselves to meet an ideal. Aesthetic sports can be beautiful, inspiring, and empowering, but only if we care about the people behind the performance.