Maria Ortiz, MS, LMHC, CEDS

Maria's Regional Congress Sessions

Region 8 - Friday
4:15 - 5:15pm
Amethyst 2-4
Culture Matters: How Language Influences the Risk of Disordered Eating
Region 8 Friday Athlete Wellness
Session Summary

“Tuck your butt under, suck your ribs in, lighter on your feet, hollow out your body, straighter line.” I assume this is not new language to hear. All have their place within the sport, and all have their place within disordered pressures. We cannot eliminate the facts of the sport, but we can change how we approach it. Language around food, body size, shape, and exercise directly impact impressionable minds; Minds that may value their coach’s opinion over all else. This lecture gives insight into how seemingly normal language within the sport of gymnastics can influence disordered behavior, and how discussion around the “whys” within the sport impact intentions behind the action.