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Core Content
Look at the below statements. Can you spot any problems with these statements?
“Your body is an instrument, not an ornament.”
“I don’t care what size you are, as long as you’re happy and healthy.”
“I’m not trying to lose weight, I am just trying to get healthy.”
“It’s ok to be overweight, as long as you don’t need a mobility aid or a motorized scooter.”
“Even though I am overweight, I am in perfect health!”
“It is important to exercise and eat a balanced diet to feel good.”
“I appreciate my legs because they allow me to run fast.”
When we focus the narrative of body functionality on (physical) health and performance, we can exclude people with mental or physical health conditions and disabilities. At the same time, we should not assume that someone with a disability or an impairment cannot be healthy or happy, or cannot perform as well as a non-disabled athlete.
Instead, when we focus on each individual’s goals and needs and accept our bodies simply because we have them, not because of how they look or what they can (physically) do, we can also appreciate what our bodies do differently.
Body functionality is not static, but includes a range of various body functions that can change due to normal aging, illness, disability, pain and injury.
In the following section, you will learn what it means to coach from a body inclusive approach – one that considers, appreciates and respects ALL bodies.
Remember – body functionality does not refer only to performing well in sport! It also refers to how athletes feel and what they can accomplish outside of sport. It is important not to value athletes simply for their performance, but as whole human beings with interests, goals and thoughts that extend beyond sport.
