Swimming can make puberty feel unusually public.
A young person may be developing breasts, body hair or changing body shape while spending significant time in fitted swimwear and communal changing areas.
Coaches can either reduce that pressure or accidentally add to it.
Expect bodies to change at different rates
Two swimmers of the same age may be at very different stages of puberty.
Avoid comparing bodies or implying that a particular shape is the ideal swimmer body.
Keep comments performance-relevant
Feedback should focus on technique, skills, effort, recovery and training behaviours rather than appearance.
Avoid remarks about:
- breast development;
- hips or body fat;
- body hair;
- whether a swimmer has "filled out";
- how revealing their body looks in a suit.
If kit fit is genuinely affecting comfort or safety, discuss the kit problem discreetly rather than commenting on the body.
Offer practical kit support
A swimmer may need a different swimsuit style or size as their body changes.
Make it normal for kit needs to change. If club kit is compulsory, make sure there is a reasonable process for finding a comfortable fit.
Where rules allow, robes, towels or shorts can help swimmers feel less exposed on poolside.
Changing-room anxiety is real
A young person who suddenly starts avoiding training may be worried about changing, periods or body exposure rather than the swimming itself.
Ask open, non-leading questions and offer private options where available.
Challenge teasing and sexualised comments
Comments from peers about bodies, breasts, periods or swimwear should not be dismissed as normal banter.
Set a clear standard and use safeguarding routes when behaviour is persistent, sexual or humiliating.
Body confidence and food can connect
Be alert to swimmers who become highly focused on being smaller, lighter or leaner.
Do not reinforce the idea that body size determines dedication or potential.
Use inclusive language
Not everyone who menstruates identifies as a girl or woman. Use the swimmer's name and pronouns and avoid making assumptions about identity based on puberty or periods.
Remember
Young people should not have to wait until they feel confident about their changing body before they are allowed to enjoy swimming.
Create an environment where the body is supported, not inspected.
Related LTM content
- Puberty, Swimwear & Body Confidence
- Moods, Feelings and Body Changes
- Toilets, Changing Rooms & Privacy: A Club Checklist
- Food, Energy, Growth & Missing Periods
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