TW: this article discusses weight, weight loss and eating disorders
This series has examined the decision to remove lightweight rowing from the Olympic programme, covering both elite and amateur athletes. In the final part of this series, Lily Nguyen speaks to Kerri Fleming from the eating disorder charity BEAT. Kerri is Head of Safeguarding and Quality Assurance.
When athletes are asked to cut weight for lightweight programs, what advice would you give them to do that without damaging their mental health?
“Sports that require people to stay within a particular weight range, such as lightweight rowing, can be very difficult for those vulnerable to or affected by eating disorders. Monitoring weight, adjusting food intake to try and lose weight or spending lots of time exercising are just a few factors that could worsen an existing eating disorder or contribute to one developing if somebody is vulnerable.
“We’d never encourage anybody unwell with an eating disorder to become a lightweight rower. If anyone has experienced an eating disorder in the past, it’s really important that they speak to their care team and GP before taking on a new exercise program, to help protect them against harm.
“The relationship between mental health and exercise can be complicated, and we’d encourage lightweight rowers to always prioritise their wellbeing over any rowing goals or targets. For instance, if you notice that food is on your mind a lot of the time, that you’re cancelling plans with loved ones in order to exercise, or are feeling guilty about what you’re eating, it might be that exercise is taking a toll on your mental health.”
How can clubs and coaches support athletes who have to cut weight?
“Coaches and clubs should encourage athletes to value their mental health above any exercise targets they set, and there mustn’t be any pressure on athletes to continue with training if they are struggling with food, exercise, or body image.
“Coaches must look out for the warning signs of an eating disorder. For instance, they might notice that an athlete seems very fixated on their exercise routine or diet, is more irritable or struggling to concentrate, or appears anxious when eating in front of others. People with eating disorders often feel reluctant to reach out for help and may try to hide their illness – especially if it would mean having to give up rowing – and so the signs can be tricky to spot. If coaches are worried about the people they teach, we’d urge them to speak to them about their concerns and ask if they need any support.
“Eating disorders are incredibly serious mental illnesses, but the sooner somebody starts treatment, the better their chances of making a full recovery. That’s why sports professionals, friends and family must be able to spot the symptoms and help others to reach out to their GP as soon as they can. Sports organisations must also ensure that mental health specialists are available for rowers to speak to whenever needed, as well as provide quality eating disorder training for all staff.”
Outside the rowing world, what other support mechanisms can athletes use if their mental health is affected by a lightweight rowing program?
“We’d encourage anybody taking part in a lightweight rowing program to take care of their mental health, for instance making sure to prioritise time with loved ones, get plenty of rest and have a balanced approach to food and exercise. We’d like to reassure people that support is available, and to urge anybody struggling with negative thoughts or behaviours around eating and exercise to speak to somebody they trust as soon as possible.“
If you’re worried about your own or someone else’s health, you can contact Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity, 365 days a year on 0808 801 0677 or beateatingdisorders.org.uk
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