Japan's Coco Yoshizawa competes in the women's street skateboarding prelims during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at La Concorde in Paris on July 28, 2024. — Photo: Odd ANDERSEN / AFP)
The physical and technical feats of skateboarding are getting increased visibility in Paris this year with the sport part of the official Olympics competitions for just the second time, and a new British study suggests it could also improve the mental health of young women.
A study conducted by researchers at Nottingham Trent University (NTU) in England and published in Sage Journals highlights the mental health benefits of skateboarding for young women.
The researchers analysed data collected over a 20-month period, involving 48 female skateboarders aged between 8 and 27. Data was collected through interviews and focus-groups in both urban and rural settings.
"Skateboarding is often perceived as a risky and male-dominated activity, but it has the potential to support better physical and mental health in young women and girls," says Carrie Paechter, professor of childhood, youth and family life at NTU's School of Social Sciences, in a statement.
The participants all reported various benefits: a feeling of freedom, optimized concentration and a feeling of flow in their movements, as well as direct benefits for their mental health, such as stress reduction. They also reported increased body self-compassion and confidence as a result of skateboarding.
"We can see from the research that it offers a unique space for young women, who can be vulnerable in terms of mental health and body positivity, to cultivate body self-compassion, find community, and enhance their overall well-being," explains the professor.
Even at international level, where the demands of the sport can create a stressful environment, young women find in skateboarding a space for "mutual support and encouragement." This community of skateboarders creates strong social bonds, an essential element in the construction of identity for young girls and teenagers.
"I hope this ethos continues and encourages more young women to skate so they can experience the trust in their bodies, social interconnectedness, and the excitement, joy, and calm of skateboarding,” concludes Carrie Paechter. — AFP Relaxnews
