Episode 180: Can We Stop Trying to Control Gymnasts’ Bodies?

In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about gymnast bodies, growth, and the persistent (and harmful) belief that adults can (or should) control how a gymnast develops.

You cannot tell where a gymnast is in their growth trajectory just by looking at them or comparing them to their teammates. Growth is completely individual. It’s shaped by genetics, prior growth patterns, and the adequacy of nutrition. 

And yet, the sport continues to act like height, weight, or body type determines success. Spoiler: it doesn’t. Sure, being extremely tall may make certain events more challenging. But what will definitely hurt a gymnast’s success is career ending injuries due to REDS.  Can we just stop with adults making assumptions and “predictions” about gymnasts’ bodies that often have no basis in science?

What’s even more frustrating? It’s almost 2026, and we STILL have coaches telling parents not to “overfeed” their gymnasts out of fear they’ll get “too big.” Nearly every time we hear this, it’s coming from an elite coach claiming they “know” everything about gymnast growth and development. Meanwhile, the gymnasts receiving this advice are commonly underfueled, behind in growth, and nowhere near the trajectory needed for long-term success.

Listen in to hear more about: 

• Gymnast bodies need to grow in a way that’s right for them. 
• And here’s what happens if you try to stop it.  
• Strategies for supporting gymnasts’ nutrition and growth

  Links & Resources  

• Episode 112: Is your “tiny gymnast” actually underfueled, or growing normally for them?
• Episode 157: Why your gymnast needs a pediatric/adolescent sports dietitian
• The Balanced Gymnast® Program for level 5-10 female gymnasts 
• Connect with Christina on Instagram @the.gymnast.nutritionist or christinaandersonrdn.com