by JoAnn Dahlkoetter, Ph.D.

This article is a continuation of the "Sports Psychology" column in the September issue of Runner Triathlete News. For complete details on how female runners differ from males, please pick up a copy of the September 2001 edition of Runner Triathlete News.

So how can women runners find greater satisfaction and a sense of well-being in the bodies that they have? How can they put an end to the obsessing about fat, food, and appearance? Clearly women need to address the issue of self-image. In my practice, I advise my female athlete clients to start placing the emphasis on intrinsic qualities rather than on external appearance. They need to be less concerned about the evaluations of others and focus on internal acceptance of themselves, regardless of body size or shape. The greater one's inner strength and self-esteem, the less need there is to gain someone else's approval.

Tools for Awareness and Change

* Learn to fully appreciate the body that you have.

* Make only those personal changes you can live with in the long run.

* Exercise according to your body's needs, not only your training plan.

* Learn to trust your body and its messages.

* View food as nourishment, not just as pleasure.

* Reward yourself in a variety of ways

You can reach JoAnn Dahlkoetter, Ph.D. at [email protected].