New Zealand Tosses Sexist Gymnastics Dress Code: Women Can Now Wear Shorts and Leggings

In a groundbreaking move, New Zealand gymnastics has revised its dress code to allow female gymnasts to wear shorts or leggings over their uniforms, just like their male counterparts. This change comes after years of female athletes facing penalties and fines for defying outdated and sexist dress codes in sports.

The pushback against restrictive dress codes for female athletes has been gaining momentum globally. In 2021, Norway’s beach handball team was fined for wearing shorts instead of regulation bikini bottoms, sparking outrage and leading to a modification of the regulations. Similarly, female performers at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Switzerland protested by wearing full-body suits to combat objectification and sexualization in sports.

The issue of dress codes not only affects the performance and comfort of female athletes but also has a significant impact on girls’ participation in sports. Research has shown that flexible uniform policies can encourage girls to stay active and engaged in physical activities, while rigid and sexist dress codes can contribute to low self-esteem and body image issues.

The discrepancies between sports uniforms for women and men are glaring, with women often being required to wear revealing and impractical outfits designed more for aesthetics than performance. From volleyball to golf, female athletes are often subjected to unfair and outdated dress codes that prioritize the male gaze over their comfort and success.

In a time where gender equality and empowerment are at the forefront of discussions, it is crucial for sports organizations to reevaluate their dress codes and ensure that all athletes are treated fairly and respectfully. The move by New Zealand gymnastics is a step in the right direction towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for female athletes.