British Gymnastics bans weighing young athletes

LONDON: British Gymnastics has implemented new safeguarding regulations aimed at preventing coaches from weighing athletes, eliminating practices it deems “on the fringe of abuse.”

These regulations are part of a comprehensive set of policies introduced by the governing body in response to the 2022 Whyte Review, which identified “systemic” physical and emotional abuse within the sport.

British Gymnastics is going beyond the recommendations of the Whyte Review to eradicate “harmful practices.”

According to the new rules, no gymnasts aged 10 or under can undergo weighing. Those above this age can only be weighed with the consent of both the gymnast and, if under 18, a parent or guardian.

Should weighing be necessary, it must be conducted by a sports science or medical practitioner, with a “scientifically valid rationale,” such as measuring growth or designing strength and conditioning exercises.

British Gymnastics stated that the policy is designed “to prevent inappropriate practices and address potential areas of concern related to weighing, considering the psychological distress and risks of developing mental health issues such as eating disorders/disordered eating, anxiety, and depression.”

“Inappropriate or excessive weighing of gymnasts is an example of poor practice that may verge on abuse and, if repeated, could constitute abuse,” the statement added.

The Whyte Review, focusing on the period from 2008 to 2020, received over 400 submissions, with more than 40 percent describing physically abusive behavior by coaches towards gymnasts.

Sarah Powell, Chief Executive of British Gymnastics, emphasized, “Above all else, we care about gymnasts as people, and these new policies make clear that what matters most in gymnastics is the welfare of those involved. While practices have progressed significantly, we acknowledge past shortcomings in these areas. By providing clarity through the outlined statements in these policies, we aim to ensure everyone understands acceptable practices and help prevent such issues in the future.”