Ginástica rítmica: a questão em torno do corpo ideal no contexto amazônico

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze the development of the body worship phenomenon and the appearance of the body image of the athletes of rhythmic gymnastics of competition in Manaus. The reasons for this search are based on the fact that Rhythmic Gymnastics (RG) requires a specific model of body shape structure with influence of sociocultural factors, representing a lean stereotype, long-lined and with low body mass. This body considered ideal consequently leads gymnasts to have a great concern with their body appearance, which often influences the result of their evaluation. As instruments, we used the ContourDrawing Rating Scale (CDRS), and Lutter's body image satisfaction questionnaire (1999). The analysis of the questionnaires followed the methodology recommended by the instruments, based on a scale of numerical values. We used the semi-structured interview with the coaches of the modality, in order to unveil their look in front of the body considered ideal for the gymnast, and existing for them an ideal model, to verify what would be the charges in relation to their body. To analyze the interview data, we used Bardin (2016). The results showed a high rate of body dissatisfaction by gymnasts, understanding that these results are reflections of the requirements of the modality that prioritizes the ideal standard as undeniably slim and slender, since what is at stake is an essentially slim body. Thus, we conclude that many athletes seek for an adequate body aesthetics and that the demands of the modality for a lean body lead to this dissatisfaction, generating other developments, especially in relation to the body of Amazonian athletes. Thus, the body considered ideal for rhythmic gymnastics is still the one that must have legs larger than the trunk, that does not have apparent muscles, and that must have great flexibility. By opting for this sport, its rules and expectations are assumed, and many studies can still be explored in the Amazonian context.