Non-Traditionally Aesthetic Body Types for Ideal Sport Performance

Abstract

The general public often conflates traditional aesthetic appeal with optimal sport performance. Runners, bikers, swimmers, etc. are examples of athletes that generally pass the public’s “eye test” for athleticism, indicating that they may be as athletic as they seem. Such is not always the case for NFL linemen, rugby players, shot putters, etc., suggesting to the general public that these athletes may not be as athletic as they seem. Contrary to popular opinion, athletes are just as likely to experience body image dissatisfaction as non-athletes, this is especially true for athletes that play sports and positions calling for non-traditionally aesthetic physiques. Should these athletes eschew sport performance for aesthetic appeal or should they eschew aesthetic appeal for sport performance when the two are mutually exclusive? Athletes often employ a cost-benefit analysis to determine their answers to these questions and this paper discusses strategies on how to help athletes make decisions that are best for them as individuals.