Does the public have the right to criticize an Olympian’s weight?
Seems to me that the obvious answer is "no," but I thought I'd throw it out there for discussion:
www.theglobeandmail.com/.../
Former Member
Is it a model competition or the Olympics? I think the results should count.
Not a fair comparison. They're comparing a tech suit pic with one of her in a training suit with exposed legs.
Writing negative articles about a female swimmers weight & shape is a super touchy subject. I don't think anyone other than the swimmer & her docs should be concerned with her weight & physical shape. A woman's weight and shape can affect her self esteem or lack there of. It's mean & hurtful to show those pics & drag her through the mud. Leilsel should shoot pics of that writer, the editors, publishers & owners the pub that ran it.
At UT in the 80's a couple coaches used to weigh the female swimmers & punish those they felt were over weight. The team roster brochure used to list height & weight. For some swimmers it lead to eating disorders & low self esteem. It's psychologically damaging. It doesn't make swimming fun.
There are rules and guidelines about what coaches can and can't say or do about their swimmers weight.
I do believe that men & women should have suit equality & I'm fine either way.
Does the public have the right to criticize an Olympian’s weight?
Seems to me that the obvious answer is "no," but I thought I'd throw it out there for discussion:
www.theglobeandmail.com/.../
No, it's just damaging to women who already have body image issues. Most female swimmers aren't super lean like some other athletes. I was actually pretty happy to shuck my size 12 shoulders after I stopped swimming in college and trimmed down. But now as a masters swimmer, I can't swim fly worth a damn because I've lost buoyancy and shoulder strength. So to me it's really all about what weight works best for what you are comfortable with vs. you want to accomplish.
Interesting thread on NPR discussing body size evolution for various olmpic events:
www.npr.org/.../olympic-bodies-they-just-dont-make-them-like-they-used-to
"Swimmers are taller and heavier than most olympians"; males setting WR in the 100 have increased in body length from 5'-8" to 6'-8" and increased sprint speed from about 4 mph to 4.75 mph.
"Swimmers are taller and heavier than most olympians"I guess it depends on the sport. There are a lot of large/tall basketball and volleyball players. And Ricardo Blas Jr in judo (6’1”, 480lbs) outweighs some relay teams.
And I will not criticize his weight:bolt:
