Why It
Matters
It’s important when considering body image that we aim to reduce concerns, while also promoting a holistic relationship with our bodies. By addressing appearance concerns, as well as learning how to appreciate and connect with our bodies, we can reach our full potential and lead meaningful lives. Having a positive body image enables us to accept and appreciate our bodies and what our bodies can do, no matter what they look like.
We are also more likely to listen and attend to our body’s needs, and better able to ignore harmful societal pressures. Society and the sports environment also play an important role in how we view and connect with our bodies. Research shows that when people play sports in inclusive environments that provide a safe place for all body types, they are more likely to appreciate, connect with and listen to their bodies.
As a coach, you have an opportunity to create these spaces for your athletes, and by doing so you can:
Prevent athletes from dropping out of sport because of body image concerns.
Help athletes reclaim confidence in their bodies within sports contexts.
Allow athletes to enjoy and excel in the sports that they love.
Focus your coaching on athlete well-being and what their bodies can do, rather than what they look like.
Once you have established an environment in which you can prevent, recognize and effectively tackle body image concerns if and when they arise, you can also begin incorporating positive body image practices. Remember, negative and positive body image can exist simultaneously, so it is important to address both.
