In class this week, I had a student ask another student, who had just presents, what “Indian runs” were. I knew where she was coming from, knowing that she was part Native American. The student meant no offense. I fact, it is a label that is still, unfortunately, used by some for tempo runs. We had class discussion about sensitivity in labels used for exercise. Another student pointed out that “Suicides” is another poor choice of labels. The discussion reminded me of a move called the “Jap” takedown from my high school wrestling days. I brought this up to a student of Japanese descent. I had struggled the week before when I saw an opportunity for a teammate of my son to use the move—and could not think what to call it. It prompted a discussion about the fine line in how we label things using nationalities and other sensitivities. For example: “Indian runs” are insensitive but “Bulgarian split squats” are quite alright.
On one hand, we are growing increasingly sensitive and are easily offended. On the other hand, we need to be sensitive of the feelings of others. We need to think about how others might perceive our labels.
When we use words, we need to think first. We should ask ourselves: 1) What is my intention?; 2) Can my words cause offense?; and 3) Is there a better choice of words? We simply need try not to offend and choose not to be easily offended. It is all a matter of respect and sensitivity.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!