Scottish distance runner Eilish McColgan has recently opened up about the pervasive issue of body shaming that she has faced on social media platforms. As she gears up for her highly anticipated debut marathon at the London Marathon this Sunday, her candid remarks shine a light on the often darker aspects of being an athlete in the digital age.

McColgan, who holds the title of reigning Commonwealth 10,000m champion, has set her sights on a significant personal milestone for this weekend's race. She aims to surpass the personal best time established by her mother, Liz McColgan, a legendary figure in the sport who won the London Marathon in 1996 and finished as the runner-up the following year in 1997. This familial connection not only adds a layer of pressure but also underscores a legacy of excellence in distance running that McColgan is eager to uphold.

Earlier this year, a training video featuring McColgan, shared by her mother, unfortunately attracted a wave of harsh and derogatory comments across various social media platforms. The young athlete described these responses as not only demeaning but also abusive, with some individuals going so far as to accuse her of anorexia. Reflecting on the emotional toll of such comments, she revealed, "I've become pretty numb to it. Those comments I've had for years; they're nothing new to me." This statement underscores the ongoing battle many athletes face concerning public perception and personal worth.

The anonymity of online platforms often emboldens individuals to engage in harassment without consequence. However, McColgan pointed out that some of these detractors, including a school teacher and a father of three daughters, have used their real names. In a bold move, she reached out to some of these individuals, expressing her disappointment and concern regarding their hurtful comments. This proactive approach illustrates her commitment to addressing the issue head-on.

"The only reason I call it out from time to time is that I know that I have a lot of young kids who follow me, and I don't want them to read it and think the reason I'm that fast is because I'm starving myself to do it," McColgan explained. She emphasized the importance of portraying a healthy and realistic image of athleticism, insisting that her reality is the polar opposite of the accusations directed at her. Her determination to be a positive role model for young athletes highlights the crucial intersection of mental health and body positivity in sports culture.

Interestingly, the official social media accounts for the London Marathon have been inactive since January, citing the online environment as no longer being a supportive or positive space. McColgan suggests that a possible remedy for the harassment problem could involve linking social media accounts to verified identities, thereby making it more difficult for bullies to hide behind anonymity. Despite her negative experiences, she remains committed to her social media presence, aiming to use her platform to promote messages of healthy body image and athletic performance.

"It's about getting across to the next generation that the priority for a successful career is to take care of your body. It doesn't matter what people online think," she emphasized. This forward-thinking approach serves to inspire not only her followers but also her peers in the athletic community.

Moreover, McColgan has received numerous messages from her followers who have faced similar bullying, particularly concerning their appearances. She shared that her own struggles with body image have resonated deeply with her audience, providing assurance and encouragement to those encountering similar challenges. "If I'm in my 30s and still getting bullied for the way I look, it gives them a little more confidence to fight their corner," she noted, highlighting her role as an advocate for self-acceptance.

Looking ahead, McColgan has her eyes set on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, where she hopes to represent her country in the marathon event. As she prepares for the grueling 26.2-mile race this Sunday, she is acutely aware of both the physical and mental challenges that await her. "I'm absolutely bricking it. I've never been this scared! It's completely unknown," she admitted, revealing her vulnerability as she faces the daunting task. With a training regimen that included runs of up to 21 miles, yet without ever tackling the full marathon distance, she is filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension regarding what lies beyond the 20-mile mark.

As McColgan gears up to take on this monumental challenge, her advocacy against body shaming and her steadfast commitment to inspiring young athletes come through strongly. The London Marathon will not only serve as a test of her physical capabilities but also as a prominent platform for her to share her powerful message of resilience and body positivity.