British Gymnastics launch welfare reforms for gymnasts

#BeTheChange is the first phase of the development of a campaign which has been a collaborative approach working with English Gymnastics, Gymnastics Northern Ireland, Scottish Gymnastics and Welsh Gymnastics.

It encourages people to think about positive changes they could make, highlighting that as a gymnastics community, there’s a need to support and challenge one another to be better to make the sport safer. The official video explains more. You can watch it below:

British Gymnastics is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults by working to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

The safe sport policies have been implemented following communication with gymnasts, coaches, clubs and parents over a consultation period of 18 months.

The first three policies to be released cover:

Hydration — gymnasts are to be provided with the opportunity and encouragement to drink during sessions and allowed to access the toilet as required at the earliest opportunity.

Weighing gymnasts — only gymnasts over 10 can be weighed and not by coaches. It must only be undertaken by qualified sports science or medical practitioners with the gymnast’s optimal long-term development in mind, and with a clear, scientifically valid rationale.

Academic education — gymnastics club training must not be scheduled during formal education time for children under the age of 12. Children aged over 12 must only miss formal education time for gymnastics club training under exceptional circumstances.

These reforms have been brought about by the now well-documented #gymnast alliance. A movement initiated by GB gymnasts to expose the darker side of gymnastics following a Netflix documentary — in which ‘Athlete A’ an American gymnast abused by USA team doctor Larry Nassar told her story.

The group stands for ethical coaching, training based on scientific research and a culture built on trust, not fear. The #gymnastalliance social media posts led to hundreds of gymnasts from around the world posting their own experiences of psychological, emotional and physical abuse.

You can watch GB National Squad member Becky Downie’s story in a new YouTube Documentary — Becky was instrumental in exposing poor practices in this country and has been on the squad for decades alongside her sister Ellie. Both were recognised in the New Year Honours list for their contributions to gymnastics and their support for other gymnasts.

Gymnastics can have an incredible impact on a person’s mental and physical well-being — but it’s crucial to provide the right environment to allow every participant the opportunity to reach their potential whilst feeling safe, supported and respected.

British Gymnastics will be providing further guidance throughout the coming months which will be invaluable to coaches, gymnasts, volunteers and family and friends of gymnasts in ensuring they can participate in an environment that nurtures and celebrates each individual and their achievements.

Areas to be covered will include flexibility, pain, injury and training load. Check social media channels and the British Gymnastics website news page for up-to-date information.