- Body image and the Olympics
- August 2008
The 2008 Beijing Olympics
began on Friday on 8th August 2008. During the next 3 weeks, we will be confronted with a plethora of super fit, toned and flexible bodies both male and female. These images are likely to increase the dissatisfaction of those whose bodies make them feel uncomfortable and ashamed; at least the 30 percent of us, according to a recent AOL poll.As I looked at the female athlete’s flat, well defined abdominal muscles, many of whom are mothers in their 30’s; I couldn’t help comparing it with my own. Where had their signs of aging and motherhood gone?
I took some comfort in the fact that these impressive world class athletes do not have the bodies they have by chance. It is the result of years of structured training with professional coaches, medical & sociological professionals and a disciplined diet. They also
had to pay a large emotional and lifestyle price.‘Normal’ women do not undergo such extreme training, health and nutrition programs. In consequence, a ‘normal’ women can never attain the body of an Olympic athlete and definitely shouldn’t compare their physique
with one.As an aside, it has just been announced that Rebecca Adlington has won Britain's first swimming gold medal for 20 years. Joanne Jackson has won the bronze. Congratulations ladies! Now back to the article.
It is also worth noting that while we might look longing at the body of a professional athlete, a study published this week by the International Journal of Eating Disorders has shown that young athletes are more likely to suffer from body dissatisfaction, anorexia etc than their non-athletic counterparts.
So over the next few weeks while you are watching the Olympic games and the associated athletic bodies that are in integral part of it remember:-
1. No body is perfect (as the media depict perfection). Even Keira Knightley (listed on People magazine's most beautiful list) recently refused to allow the enhancement of her A–cup breasts on the publicity shoots of ‘Duchess’. This is a great endorsement for individuality and accepting a ‘you’ that does not line up with our societies view of physical beauty.
2. Look at your own body and the bodies of others. Most people you will notice, will have bodies that are remarkably similar to yours. At the same time most will be self confident and unconcerned with the fact that they do not fit the media stereotype.
3. Appreciate your physical abilities. Exercise to increase strength and endurance rather than to lose your stomach fat. In addition to feeling fitter, you'll develop a new respect for your body's ability to improve one step at a time.
4. Look in the mirror and make a mental note of the aspects of your body that you like. This my sound nonsensical, but studies have shown that emphasizing the positive improves ones attitude, self-awareness and self esteem.
5. Treat your body with respect. Aim for clothes that are comfortable and fit your body type, rather than trying to make your body conform to the latest fashion trend.
6. Nourish your body with nutritious foods and treat yourself to pleasant experiences e.g. a massage. Ensure that you get enough exercise, rest and sleep; together this will give you the sense that you're taking care of something valuable i.e. the only body you have.