British diver Tom Daley recently shared his experience with the infamous “anti-sex” cardboard beds at the 2024 Paris Olympics. In a TikTok video, he showcased the bed, which consisted of a cardboard base with a thin mattress and a Paris ’24 comforter. Daley jumped up and down on the bed to demonstrate its sturdiness and debunk rumors that it couldn’t withstand sexual activity.
Irish gymnast Rhys McClenaghan also tested the bed by performing various movements on it, ultimately concluding that they were sturdy and could support physical activity without any issues. Australian tennis players Daria Saville and Ellen Perez also joined in, trying out resistance band exercises on the beds to see if they could withstand the movements. All in all, the athletes seemed impressed by the bed’s durability.
The cardboard beds first gained attention at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics when athletes raised concerns about their ability to support physical activities beyond sleeping. Team USA runner Paul Chelimo even suggested that the beds were designed to discourage intimacy among athletes. Despite this, this year’s Olympians have not shied away from testing the beds and have even shared their experiences on social media platforms.
Despite the initial controversy surrounding the beds, organizers for the Paris Olympics assured athletes that the choice of cardboard was made to minimize environmental impact and provide a second life for the equipment used during the Games. They emphasized that the furniture had been rigorously tested to ensure its quality and comfort for athletes of all body types. Additionally, rumors about the beds have sparked conversations about intimacy and sexual activity among athletes at the Olympic Village.
To further support athletes, organizers have made 300,000 condoms available at the Olympic Village, with the condoms even included in welcome kits for athletes. Canadian sailor Sarah Douglas shared a video showcasing the Olympic-themed condoms in the welcome kits. Despite initial concerns about the beds’ ability to deter sexual activity, it seems that athletes are finding ways to enjoy their time in the Olympic Village while respecting the sustainability efforts of the Games.
In conclusion, the “anti-sex” cardboard beds at the 2024 Paris Olympics have been a topic of discussion among athletes, with many sharing their experiences testing the beds and debunking rumors of their instability. While the choice of material may have sparked initial concerns, organizers have emphasized the beds’ durability and comfort for athletes of all body types. With the availability of condoms and the efforts to promote sustainability, it seems that athletes are adapting to the unique accommodations and finding ways to enjoy their time at the Olympic Games.
