Janja Garnbret, an Olympic gold medalist and eight-time world champion, possesses unparalleled insight into the competitive climbing world. With her remarkable achievements, the Slovenian athlete is leveraging her platform to shed light on the pervasive issue of eating disorders within the climbing community, describing it as a significant cultural challenge.
Garnbret identifies an outdated belief system that associates lighter weight with faster climbing as the root cause of the problem. This mentality fosters an environment where young athletes may resort to skipping meals or reducing intake, often leading to detrimental consequences.
While Garnbret herself hasn’t struggled with eating disorders, she has witnessed the harmful effects on friends and fellow competitors. Growing up, she observed that her climbing role models were predominantly “super skinny,” reinforcing the notion that weight loss equated to success in the sport.
In an effort to address this issue, Garnbret took to social media in July 2023 to raise awareness about eating disorders, sparking a conversation within the climbing community. She highlighted the dangers of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), a syndrome that can wreak havoc on an athlete’s physical and mental health if left untreated.
Recognizing the urgency of the issue, the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) implemented comprehensive regulations related to REDs, signaling a commitment to athlete well-being. These measures include a screening procedure aimed at identifying and supporting athletes at risk.
Despite facing challenges, Garnbret remains determined to effect positive change within the climbing community. She sees her role as an Olympic champion as an opportunity to mentor and empower the next generation of climbers, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help them navigate the sport safely.
Garnbret’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks, notably a prolonged absence from competition due to a toe injury. Despite the challenges, she views the experience as a catalyst for personal growth, emerging stronger and more resilient.
With one Olympic gold medal already secured, Garnbret is driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Qualifying for the Paris Games, she sets her sights on further Olympic success, fueled by an unwavering determination to reach her full potential both mentally and physically.
