Coaches are influential role models for athletes and can impact how athletes perceive and feel in and about their bodies. Unfortunately, as was recently courageously shared by @skyemoench , it's not uncommon for coaches to focus on appearance over body functionality. Body weight is a sensitive and personal issue yet far too many coaches share a belief that a lower body weight will improve performance. If you are a coach, you have a responsibility to take care of your athlete - physically, emotionally and mentally. Every athlete has his/her own optimal body composition where the body functions the best and this body is achieved through consistent training, nutritious eating and proper fueling and hydration. Acknowledge an athlete’s strengths beyond a look, for an athlete is a human - not an object. Making remarks about body composition and performance (even if well-intentioned) can trigger or exacerbate disordered eating thoughts and behaviors. Having a diverse representatio...
3x Author, Board Certified Sports Dietitian, Master of Science in Exercise Physiology, 2017 IM CHOO Amateur Female Champion, 19xIronman finisher including 6xIM World Championship finisher, Triathlon Coach, 30-year Vegetarian.Trimarnicoach.com