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Christian Gallardo on The Intersection of Athleticism and Sustainability | Columbus, OH

Christian Gallardo | Sports

By Christian GallardoPublished 10 months ago 4 min read
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In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the impact of sports and athletic events on the environment. The sports industry has a significant environmental footprint from the carbon emissions from travel to the waste produced by fans and athletes. However, there are also many ways in which athleticism and sustainability intersect and opportunities for athletes and sports organizations to promote environmental sustainability.

Sustainable Facilities

One of the most apparent ways athleticism and sustainability intersect is by designing and constructing sustainable sports facilities. Many new sports facilities with sustainable features, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and efficient lighting and heating systems, are being built. These features can help reduce energy consumption and promote environmental sustainability.

Sustainable Transportation

Athletic events often involve significant travel, which can significantly impact the environment. However, there are many ways in which athletes and fans can reduce their carbon footprint when traveling to and from events. Encouraging public transportation, carpooling, and cycling can help reduce the emissions generated by travel.

Sustainable Equipment

Athletes can also promote environmental sustainability by using sustainable equipment. Many athletic gear manufacturers are now producing products made from sustainable materials such as recycled plastic and organic cotton. Additionally, athletes can extend the life of their equipment by repairing and reusing it instead of constantly replacing it.

Sustainable Nutrition

Athletes can also promote environmental sustainability through their dietary choices. Eating a plant-based diet can help reduce the environmental impact of food production, as the production of animal products is often associated with high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water consumption. Athletes can also choose to eat locally sourced and organic foods whenever possible.

Sustainable Events

Sports organizations can also promote environmental sustainability by organizing sustainable events. This can involve reducing waste by using reusable cups and plates, using renewable energy sources, and promoting public transportation options for fans. Additionally, sports organizations can use their platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Eco-Friendly Training

Athletes can also promote environmental sustainability through their training practices. Training in natural environments such as parks and forests can help reduce the environmental impact of training, as it reduces the need for energy-intensive indoor training facilities. Additionally, athletes can use eco-friendly materials such as bamboo and hemp in their training equipment.

The intersection of athleticism and sustainability offers many opportunities for athletes and sports organizations to promote environmental sustainability. From the design and construction of sustainable sports facilities to the adoption of sustainable transportation and nutrition practices, there are many ways in which athletes can make a positive impact on the environment. Additionally, sports organizations can promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about environmental issues through their events and platforms. Athletes can improve their performance and contribute to a more sustainable future by incorporating sustainable practices into their athletic pursuits.

This blog was previously published on May 8, 2023 at ChristianGallardo.net

ABOUT CHRISTIAN GALLARDO

While he has recently been living in Columbus, Ohio, Christian Gallardo has moved multiple times while pursuing his passion for competitive gymnastics. Christian has been interested in gymnastics for most of his life, competing in high school and with the United States of America Gymnastics program. As a level 10 competitor, he developed advanced skills and became deeply familiar with the long days and high-pressure environment of investing in this sport. During his personal career, Christian earned multiple state and regional qualifications as well as medals in the floor and vault routines.

Christian Gallardo eventually stepped back from his own competitive gymnastics career, but he didn’t leave the sport. He learned firsthand how sports could teach critical life lessons in unique ways and decided he wanted to help other youths benefit from those same lessons and opportunities. With this in mind, he took up coaching in 2005. He started working with young kids at a recreational level in El Paso, Texas, but by 2011 had moved to Ohio to work with elite-level athletes.

Living in Ohio and working with Buckeye Gymnastics, Christian Gallardo grew extensively in his coaching skills and accomplishments. He organized training camps, traveled often with his team, ran clinics, and helped operate one of the largest gymnastic meets in the United States. Coaching at this level, Christian worked with several prominent athletes, including Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas. Other well-known competitors coached by Christian Gallardo include Shania Adams, Shilese Jones, Makarri Doggette, and Nia Dennis.

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About the Creator

Christian Gallardo

Christian Gallardo owns and coaches Future Gymnastics Academy in Columbus, Ohio. Before becoming a coach, he was a gymnast himself. Visit him on Crunchbase for more information!

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