Gymnasts challenging dress norms

In a bold move at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships, German gymnasts Sarah Voss, Kim Bui, and Elisabeth Seitz donned full-body suits, challenging the prevailing norms and sparking a conversation about the sexualization of gymnasts.

Breaking away from tradition, these athletes used their attire to take a stand against the perceived objectification within the sport.

The German federation (DTB) revealed that the trio aimed to address the issue of sexualization, considering it a crucial step in preventing potential instances of sexual abuse within the gymnastics community.

Sarah Voss expressed the hope that their unconventional choice would empower gymnasts who feel uncomfortable in the typical outfits, encouraging them to embrace a different, more modest attire.

Voss emphasized the challenges female gymnasts face as they transition from child to adult bodies, highlighting the discomfort that can arise with the standard tight gym outfits, particularly during puberty.

The year-long project culminated in this symbolic act of rebellion against the status quo.

Under International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) rules, competitors are allowed to wear a “one-piece leotard with full-length legs – hip to ankle,” provided it maintains an elegant design.

Voss explained that the motivation behind the new form of leotard was to ensure athletes felt secure during performances, free from distractions or concerns about wardrobe malfunctions.

The move isn’t just about attire; it’s a broader statement about promoting inclusivity within the sport.

Voss noted that some girls have left gymnastics due to discomfort with traditional leotards, making the full-body suit a viable option to allow everyone to participate without undue focus on their bodies.

Teammate Elisabeth Seitz echoed Voss’s sentiments, emphasizing the practicality and freedom of movement that the full-body suits offer. Seitz highlighted that the team had collectively adopted these outfits for training, prompting the question of why they couldn’t do the same in competition.

The German federation supported Voss and her teammates, echoing the idea that gymnastics should be a space where female athletes feel comfortable in their clothing.

British-Jamaican gymnast Danusia Francis praised the move, emphasizing that these suits give athletes the power of choice, potentially paving the way for more women to join the sport without fear of judgment or discomfort.

The gymnasts hope their example will inspire others to embrace individual choices in attire, fostering a supportive environment where athletes can prioritize their performance over societal expectations.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Scoop