The Olympic Value of Respect Library: Assemblies

Respect can be about many things. It can be about having a caring and courteous attitude

and about giving others the dignity they deserve

Respect can be about realising that there is more than one way to approach a situation and that others may have a different opinion

In sport, there is a huge focus on self-respect

Here is Jessica Ennis

Jess is now the Olympic Gold medallist in Heptathlon

To be the best in Heptathlon

Jess has to excel in seven events 100m Hurdles High Jump Shot Put 200m Long Jump Javelin Throw 800m

Jess has to respect her body by training twice a day, six days a week

and by eating enough carbohydrates and protein the night before a big event

Jess has to match the right foods with the right event: light foods before the High Jump and heavy foods before the Shot Put

Jess also has to respect the opinion of others. Jess has special respect for her coach, Tony Minichiello, who always brings the best out of her

How much respect do you have for yourself and for others?

What little habits could you change in your daily life? Perhaps you could walk or cycle to school instead of coming in the car or on the bus

Maybe you could ditch the sugary, salty snacks for something a bit healthier? You’ll feel more energetic if you do!

Focus on the idea of self-respect and talk about the different ways that we can respect ourselves – simple tasks like brushing your teeth every day. How about living your lives according to values or principles? How do athletes create a culture of self-respect? Has watching Olympic athletes inspired you to respect your body more? What small changes could you make in their everyday lives? Some examples are provided, but can you think of your own ideas?