German Gymnasts’ Full-Body Suits Make a Bold Statement Against Sexualization

During my high school cheerleading days, I wore a vibrant uniform featuring a purple and white tank top adorned with a “V” design and a flouncy skirt that danced as I twirled. I adored cheerleading and took pride in my outfit. However, I often felt overly exposed during moves that required me to spread my legs. Flip after flip on the sidelines, I worried that my skirt might fly up, revealing more than intended. The anxiety over potential peeping Toms in the stands was a constant source of stress. To prepare for game days, I followed a meticulous shaving routine to ensure no hair peeked out from my bloomers; I even wore wedgie-proof bloomers.

This concern was normalized within our cheer community, something we accepted as part of the sport we loved.

An Athlete’s Right to Choose Coverage

Recently, German gymnast Lisa Müller made headlines for opting to compete in a full-body unitard at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Basel, Switzerland—alongside two of her teammates. I often wished for a similar level of coverage during my cheer performances, where I was only in front of a small audience.

In an interview with ZDF, Müller expressed, “We women all want to feel confident in our skin. In gymnastics, it’s increasingly challenging to feel comfortable as we transition out of our child-like bodies. As a young girl, I didn’t mind the tight outfits, but as puberty hit, it became uncomfortable.” The German Gymnastics Federation (DTB) fully supports their athletes, affirming that female competitors should feel at ease in their clothing and advocating against the sexualization in gymnastics. Müller hopes that their example inspires other gymnasts who feel uneasy in traditional outfits to follow suit.

The Evolution of Gymnastics Attire

Historical images from the 1908 Olympics show female gymnasts in attire resembling formal dresses rather than practical athletic wear. With long, puffy sleeves and below-the-knee skirts, their bodies were almost entirely concealed. By the 1948 Olympics, gymnastics suits began to resemble modern leotards, with a tighter fit and fabric that exposed the legs. Over the years, advancements in fabric technology have improved the stretch and look of leotards.

Today, female gymnasts typically wear form-fitting leotards made of shiny material that accentuates every curve. These outfits are often long-sleeved with high-cut legs designed to elongate the appearance of the athlete’s legs. While leotards are meant to showcase personality and boost confidence, they come with their own set of challenges.

Unusual Norms in Gymnastics

Due to the nature of tight-fitting leotards, they can sometimes ride up uncomfortably, leading to wedgies that reveal more than intended. If a gymnast adjusts her leotard during a performance, judges may deduct points. Many female athletes resort to using a spray adhesive called TuffSkin to keep their leotards in place.

Although wearing these types of leotards has become customary, it is not strictly required. The consensus is that higher-cut leg openings create an illusion of longer legs, potentially influencing judges’ perceptions. While shorts aren’t officially banned, they are not recognized as acceptable attire in the current Women’s Code of Points. Unitards that cover from hip to ankle are allowed, but female gymnasts wearing shorts risk point deductions.

A change.org petition is circulating to modify these rules, arguing that athletes shouldn’t be penalized for choosing to wear shorts. The petition outlines concerns about young female athletes having to compete in barely-there leotards during their menstrual cycles or face deductions, deeming the rules discriminatory and outdated.

Coverage Is Not a Shield

It’s important to clarify that wearing more coverage does not equate to protection from sexualization or assault, nor does it imply that those in conventional leotards are “asking for it.” Former gymnast Aly Raisman highlighted this point during discussions on athlete attire in light of the Larry Nassar abuse scandal. This issue revolves around personal choice and consent. While sports have standards, gymnastics might benefit from incorporating more options for athletes seeking greater coverage.

Other sports, like beach volleyball, have adapted their uniform guidelines, allowing female players to wear shorts instead of the previously mandatory bikinis. This flexibility should be extended across all sports, enabling athletes to choose how they present their bodies without fear of penalties.

Though Müller felt her performance on the beam wasn’t her best, she was proud of her choice to wear a stunning unitard. In an Instagram post, she stated, “Why not feel good while looking elegant?” We couldn’t agree more, Lisa.

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Summary:

German gymnasts, led by athletes like Lisa Müller, are challenging the traditional norms of gymnastics attire by opting for full-body unitards, advocating for comfort and autonomy over their bodies. This movement highlights the ongoing discussion around sexualization in sports and the need for choices that empower female athletes.