The evolution of challenges to women’s participation in international competitions and the limiting role of clothing

Abstract

The present research aims to raise awareness to the limitations of dress code in Olympic Sports which cause restrictions for women from different parts of the world, and different cultures, to take part in training and competitions. To achieve this goal, three questions must be considered: What can the International Federations do to adjust the female uniforms in order to include, in the dress code rules, options that fit the needs of most of the women worldwide? Can the dress code for females in Olympic sports be more fully inclusive? And what are the possible changes the world will face in the the coming years, and within this changing context, what kinds of positive social legacy can Olympic sport generate? To set the foundation for this discussion, the research begins with a literature review of the sportive ‘facts’, but also of the historical context, and the social and cultural transformations. Dress code rules books are subsequently analyzed, aiding in demonstarte that women throughout the decades have faced, and indeed still do, many embarrassing situations just because they are female athletes. In many instances, female dress code rules have been developed in ways that are physically more restricting than those of male athletes. Therefore, this study focuses on finding ways and new possibilities for Olympic sport to be more inclusive when it comes to female athletes, making the sportive environment safe and comfortable for all of them, regardless of nation, background, culture, religion, feminine requirements or any other subject that may rise. It is controversial to present the wonderful way of life that can be followed by some restricted groups, as the Olympics are made for all, and the Olympic Games are intended to be transnational, when sport needs to bring people together thru Olympism in all senses and directions.