Every two years, the world’s best athletes converge for a shot at glory. Summer and winter Olympic games include some of sport’s most unifying and inspiring moments. However, it is not all fun and games (no pun intended). When it comes to behaviour on and off the field, there are Olympic rules that competitors must obey, some of which are next level enigmatic.

Boxers must be shaved clean.

Boxing competitors must be clean-shaven or have very little facial hair.

Gymnasts are not permitted to wear brightly colored nail polish.

Gymnasts can wear colorful makeup, but bright nail polish is not permitted. For these athletes, it’s either neutral or none at all.

Olympic athletes are not permitted to protest while competing.

Athletes are not permitted to protest on the playing field, in the Village, during ceremonies, or at the opening and closing ceremonies. The rule was implemented before to the 2020 tournament and has received major criticism.

Athletes can receive endorsements. They just can’t talk about them publicly.

Athletes can obtain endorsements and be compensated for them. However, during the games, the athlete is not permitted to mention them, and the company is not permitted to promote the player.

Pants are required for men’s ice skating.

While you might expect male figure skaters to wear tights like dancers, this is not the case. Trousers are required for the dress code.

Competitors in women’s figure skating must wear skirts.

While men are required to wear pants, women are not. A skirt is necessary, even if they are simple and translucent.

Athletes are not permitted to upload images from the field or backstage on social media.

While athletes are permitted to use and post on social media during the games, there are some limits. Images and video of the field of play or backstage areas such as player and coach-only areas are not permitted.

BMX riders are required to tuck their shirts in.

BMX riders are expected to tuck in their shirts, even if they are wearing matching pants.

Backflips are not permitted in figure skating.

Backflips, while cool, aren’t allowed in figure skating because of the two-foot landing, which disqualifies it as a “jump.” That didn’t stop Surya Bonaly, a 1998 contender, from landing one for the fans.

Wrestlers are required to carry a handkerchief.

Olympic wrestlers are required to carry a hanky known as a “bloodrag.” somewhere in their costume. Yes, it is utilized to clean up any competition bleeding.

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