Do you call yourself an athlete? Or are you uncomfortable using that term for yourself? Many people I speak to, particularly women, are hesitant to label themselves as an athlete, despite participating in sport and fitness regularly.
The word athlete is loaded with stereotypes. It brings to mind the idea of a professional sportsperson, someone whose life centres around training and competing at an elite level. Someone with a sculpted, lean body who excels at their sport.
The dictionary definition of an athlete is “a person trained or gifted in exercises or contests involving physical agility, stamina, or strength”.
Being an athlete actually has nothing to do with being gifted, having a certain body type or earning a paycheque from sport. To me, an athlete is anyone who has a goal, and pursues that goal with consistency, determination and passion. Anyone who is competitive, even if it’s only with themselves.
Everyone who completes an endurance race deserves to be called an athlete, no matter if they finish first or last. We swim, bike and run on the same course as professional athletes. We put time, effort and dedication into our training and preparation.
This quote really sums it up for me…
If you have a body, you’re an athlete
Bill Bowerman, Nike Co-Founder
Do you call yourself an athlete?
It’s time to redefine the word and start calling yourself an athlete. Take ownership of your accomplishments, wherever you are on your fitness journey. Our opinion of ourself is important. It creates a sense of confidence and pride when we identify as an athlete. It raises our expectations of ourselves and helps us to flourish in sport and fitness.
I am an athlete. Are you?
Athlete T-Shirt was gifted by Amwrap, but all opinions my own. Check out their site for cute fitness-inspired clothing, accessories and gifts.