Body image of male college athletes: the role of uniforms and socio-cultural ideals on the perceptions of body image

ABSTRACT This study explored male athletes’ body image perceptions and how sociocultural influences and athletic uniforms may contribute to their perception. An open-ended survey was used to gather information from 75 current and former football athletes. Study results showed that athletes perceive inconsistencies between their own bodies and the ‘ideal’ male body, that sociocultural images and comments from others strongly influence athletes’ perceptions of their bodies, and that football athletic uniforms also affect athletes’ body images. This study contributes to an under-investigated area of research concerning male athletes and body image. The researchers discussed the body image issues male athletes face and offered suggestions for more inclusive athletic uniform marketing and athletic programs.