Shauna Coxsey has hit back at critics over social media posts from her showing the climber doing the activity while heavily pregnant.
The Runcorn-native who competed for Team GB in the sport's Olympic Games debut at Tokyo 2020 has been posting on her Instagram about her recent experiences on the climbing wall. Showing off her incredible talents, Shauna has not let being 39 weeks pregnant stop her.
Her posts have received a mixed reception, with many people criticising her for doing the activity just before she gives birth. Some even accused her of putting her baby in danger.
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However, responding to this, Coxsey - who finished 10th in Tokyo - told the BBC: "It feels way more risky for me to walk down the street. I feel much more likely to trip over on a bumpy road than I do to go up an easy climbing wall.
"If I don't climb for a week or so, my body feels quite clunky and everything gets a bit achy. As soon as I get back on that wall and start stretching and moving again, my body feels more connected and good and strong and also my mental health as well.
"I can't imagine stopping if I didn't need to and I haven't needed to and it feels great. I've been really fortunate.
"I wouldn't put my baby in danger. People think I might be able to fall and land on my stomach - which is something I have never ever done or seen happen before.
"For me to share a bit and communicate how I have gone about this pregnancy and say it is possible to keep climbing in a safe way has been really important. It's frustrating that other women are getting this judgement and choosing to give up something that they love and are comfortable with because of the fear of judgement. It is such a sad position to be in - it is bullying."
Despite the criticism, thousands of others have praised Coxsey for her can do attitude, with some describing her as an "inspiration". One person replied to a post Coxsey uploaded yesterday (May 2): "I can’t even do that with a regular body! So impressive."
Another follower said: "Amazing - thank you for showing a positive image of pregnancy. No one wants your baby more than you and your partner so you wouldn't risk their health. Keep doing what you're doing and all the best for your new arrival."
