Body insatisfaction in adolescents practicing rhythmic gymnastics

• Grant number: 18/25668-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2019
• End date: December 31, 2019
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physical Education
• Principal Investigator: Myrian Nunomura
• Grantee: Laura de Oliveira
• Host Institution: Escola de Educação Física e Esporte de Ribeirão Preto (EEFERP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The incessant quest for the ideal and perfect body, based on socially and culturally established standards, has occupied the sporting sphere in a significant way. Cases of eating disorder and insatisfaction with body image in female athletes have been reported in sports with aesthetic characteristics such as Rhythmic Gymnastics (RG). The objective of the project is to investigate the reasons that lead to the physical insatisfaction of RG athletes, in order to identify possible causes and consequences from a sociological and pedagogical perspective, discussing the role of coaches in this process. We will interview female gymnasts between the ages of 13 and 16 who compose GR teams from the State of São Paulo. Also will be part of the study, the respective coaches of the selected teams. We will proceed with the semi-structured interview and use the thematic analysis technique to treat the results. The results are intended to help coaches to make sports practice more attractive, away from adverse pressures and, consequently, to promote the permanence and achievement of the maximum potential of the athletes in the modality. The study may also contribute to the awareness of practitioners involved in the practice, so that athletes' health is preserved. It is important that they do not subject themselves to caloric restrictions in view of results and that this relationship is demystified.