From personal work to being a teacher

Abstract

Barriers of trans* people in physical activity and sport The aim of this research was to analyse trans* people’s situation in physical activity and sport (PAS). The main objective was to analyse the obstacles they face and how they deal with them. Butler’s gender performativity and socio-ecological model were used as the theoretical framework. Five trans* people aged 18 to 32 were interviewed using the in-depth interviews. Trans* people face a number of obstacles in PAS: a) intrapersonal aspects related to the body appearance and hormonation, b) difficulties caused by family members and friends and other sports agents, related to the need to support them, and d) contextual barriers related to the fear in different spaces, especially in the changing rooms. In conclusion, it is necessary to promote strategies for trans* people to challenge their intrapersonal difficulties, to educate and change the way others look at them, and to make PAS spaces safe for everyone. This study can help to improve the reality of trans* people in sports policies.