The Weight of Expectations

This chapter discusses the intense pressures elite athletes face regarding body weight in weight-dependent sports, revealing the severe physical and emotional consequences tied to these expectations. It emphasizes the detrimental impact of unrealistic weight goals set by coaches, particularly on female athletes, and critiques harmful coaching practices. Through personal anecdotes, the chapter sheds light on the systemic issues within competitive sports that prioritize weight over athlete well-being, raising concerns about mental health and abusive training environments.