Janja Garnbret: Olympic Gold Medalist and Champion Climber Advocating for Healthy Body Image
As a decorated competitive climber, Janja Garnbret has ascended the ranks to become one of the best in the world. With eight world championship titles and an Olympic gold medal under her belt, she brings a unique perspective to the climbing community.
Recognizing that the world of competitive climbing harbors cultural pitfalls contributing to the pervasive issue of eating disorders, Garnbret aims to use her platform to raise awareness and promote healthy body image.
The Roots of an Unhealthy Ideology
Garnbret asserts that the issue stems from a deeply rooted belief that weight plays a significant role in climbing performance. This mindset can lead young athletes to restrict their meals or skip them altogether, with potentially devastating consequences.
Although she personally hasn’t experienced eating disorders, Garnbret has witnessed the detrimental effects on her fellow climbers. “This is a cultural thing in climbing,” she explains to News Finder Sport.
A Damaging Mindset
“Of course, weight does have a role in climbing,” Garnbret acknowledges. “But it’s not about being as light as possible. It’s essential to find the right balance.”
“I am a strong advocate for healthy living and believe that climbing, or any sport, can be pursued in a wholesome way,” she insists.
Influence from Role Models
Growing up, Garnbret’s climbing role models were all “super skinny,” reinforcing the notion that weight loss was a prerequisite for success.
“When you see someone winning, it’s natural to want to be like them,” she admits. “I was in that same position, but I was fortunate enough to have supportive people around me.”
Addressing the Taboo: A Call for Change
Garnbret’s Instagram post in July 2023 sparked a significant response, with athletes and supporters alike joining the conversation about eating disorders in the climbing community.
“We don’t want to raise the next generation of climbers who are mere shadows of their potential,” she wrote in her post.
The Dangers of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs)
Garnbret’s message highlighted the issue of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), a syndrome that occurs when someone has overtrained and/or undereaten for an extended period.
“Left untreated, REDs can lead to severe health complications, including damage to bone health, immune system, cardiovascular health, menstrual cycles, and mental health,” she warns.
IFSC’s New Regulations
The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) has acknowledged the issue and implemented comprehensive regulations to address REDs, making it the first international federation to introduce such measures.
Being a Role Model
“I feel honored and happy to be in this position because I want to give something back to climbing,” Garnbret says when asked about her role as a role model.
Overcoming Adversity: A Broken Toe and the Road to Paris 2024
Garnbret’s career hasn’t been without challenges. A broken toe forced her to take a prolonged absence from competition, affecting her both physically and mentally.
“It was the hardest time in my career,” she recalls. “I had many doubts and negative thoughts, unsure if I would ever be able to climb at the top level again.”
Despite the setback, Garnbret continued to train, focusing on her upper body strength while wearing a boot cast. The experience taught her valuable lessons about resilience and mental fortitude.
Looking Ahead: Paris 2024 and Beyond
“I always want to be the best, to stay on top,” Garnbret says, reflecting on her ambitious goals for the future.
“I’m working hard and staying focused. I have one Olympic medal, but I want more,” she shares.
“My potential is far from being reached mentally, so I’ll continue to push myself.”
With the Olympics in Paris just around the corner, Garnbret is determined to make a strong comeback and continue advocating for healthy living within the climbing community.
