Episode 112: Is your “tiny gymnast” actually underfueled, or growing normally for them?

It’s a sensitive topic, but one that we need to address: is your gymnast a “tiny gymnast” or is she actually underfueled?

It can be a tricky conversation to have due to the fact that there are still stereotypes of what a gymnast body “should” look like. And is it always an issue? The fact is, some of the population is just smaller. That’s why we have growth and height percentiles because humans come in all shapes and sizes.

But how do you know when your tiny gymnast is just genetically on the smaller side or is underfueled? Or if something else is going on? Sadly, these stereotypes are prevalent even with medical professionals, ie your pediatrician. I have clients who have been told by doctors, “its fine she’s small and not growing, she’ll grow when she’s done with gymnastics”. Or, “it’s fine she’s 16 and doesn’t have her period yet, she’s just a gymnast”. YIKES!

Listen in on today’s episode as I’m discussing how we navigate these misinformed biases and stereotypes when assessing our clients. Why we take a scientific approach in terms of what’s normal and what’s not with nutrition and growth and development.

In this episode you’ll hear about: 

• Growth charts and how they are a blueprint to ensuring healthy growth and development
• Family and genetic history impact on assessing a gymnast’s growth patterns
• Long term effects of underfueling on your gymnast’s health and development

Links & Resources 

• The Balanced Gymnast® Program for level 5-10 female gymnasts 
• Episode 94: Does Gymnastics Stunt Growth?
• Episode 65: Dangerous advice you may get about fueling your gymnast
• Connect with Christina on Instagram @the.gymnast.nutritionist or christinaandersonrdn.com