Weightlifting and other weight class sports are intense and demanding, often requiring athletes to maintain specific body weights to compete in designated classes. For athletes recovering from eating disorders, navigating this environment can be particularly challenging. Understanding the importance of weight class in these sports, while prioritizing mental and physical health, is crucial for a sustainable recovery and in turn a happy and healthy life.
Weight classes in sports like USA Weightlifting ensure fair competition by grouping athletes of similar body mass. This system levels the playing field, but it also puts pressure on athletes to achieve and maintain specific weights. For someone with a history of an eating disorder, this can be a trigger, potentially compromising their recovery. It is essential to strike a balance between competitive aspirations and health. This is where informed-Coaching, Nutrition and Therapy play a huge role.
The role of eating disorder-informed coaches cannot be overstated in this context. These coaches understand the complexities of eating disorders and the potential triggers associated with weight class sports. They are equipped to offer tailored guidance that respects the athlete’s mental and physical well-being, ensuring that training and competition strategies do not compromise recovery.
Self-advocacy is a critical skill for athletes recovering from eating disorders. At meets, athletes can request blind weigh-ins to avoid seeing their weight, which can be a trigger. This practice can help maintain focus on performance rather than numbers, fostering a healthier relationship with the sport. Additionally, having a coach accompany you during weigh-ins can provide emotional support and ensure that your boundaries are respected.
Weight manipulation and cutting are common in weight class sports, but for athletes with a history of eating disorders, these practices can be particularly harmful. It is vital to approach weight discussion and changes with caution, prioritizing long-term health over short-term performance gains. Developing a sustainable nutrition plan with a qualified dietitian or nutritionist can help.
Incorporating therapy into your training routine is also essential. Regular sessions with a therapist who understands the demands of weight class sports can provide crucial support. Therapy can help you navigate the pressures of competition, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and maintain a positive mindset.
Mindset is an important part of this work. Fostering a growth mindset, where you focus on progress and effort rather than just outcomes, can be incredibly beneficial. This approach can help you stay motivated, resilient, and balanced, even when faced with setbacks.
At Empowered RX, we understand these challenges intimately. As a trauma-informed and eating disorder-informed health coaching company and barbell club, we have taken many women to local competitions, winning gold, silver, and bronze medals in various weight classes. One of the things we love the most is how size-inclusive and female-dominated our community is.
Our coaching is unique in that our athletes not only get programming for weightlifting competitions but also benefit from trauma-informed classes, nutrition and anti-diet education, and recovery coaching. Additionally we collaborate with our athlete’s treatment teams and supports, offering continuity of care and a bridge to competition that is holistic and medically informed. This approach allows women to transition post-treatment to a healthier way of existing as athletes in a weight-based sport. For those not in treatment, we still provide the support necessary to thrive in this challenging environment.
Athletes should be aware of the signs of relapse and have a support system in place to address any emerging issues. Open communication with coaches, teammates, and mental health professionals is crucial. Ensuring that everyone involved in the athlete’s journey is informed and supportive can create a safer and more positive environment for competition.
Ultimately, competing in weight class sports after an eating disorder requires a holistic and informed approach. By prioritizing health, seeking support from knowledgeable professionals, and advocating for oneself, athletes can enjoy a fulfilling and successful career without compromising their recovery. The journey may be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to thrive both in sport and in life.
Keep your eyes open for future articles on:
Weight classes
Mindset
Connection vs. Disconnection on the Platform
Self-Advoacy
Fueling for Sport
Understanding the Sport of Weightlifting
& MORE!
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