London, Aug 19 : Rebecca Adlington has urged young girls to take up sports saying that they can be still look feminine despite being an athlete.

The Olympic champion hopes that girls will now get into sports, following the success of women at the London Games.

"Women have really stood out at these games," the Daily Mail quoted her as saying.

"I just really hope we've inspired a younger generation to get out there and try and find a sport that they enjoy and suits them," she said.

She points to two of the "poster girls" of London 2012 - cyclist Victoria Pendleton and heptathlete Jessica Ennis as examples.

"I think in Britain we have some of the best role models.

"Victoria and Jessica are both stunning with amazing figures. They show you can be slim but in a healthy way.

"You can be an athlete but still be feminine. As a swimmer I can't really do anything with my hair or makeup, so that's why I paint my nails. Sport doesn't mean you can't be girly," she added.

Her words have extra weight as she is clearly comfortable in her own skin, despite unpleasant jibes from comedian Frankie Boyle and huge media attention.

"I've found women do get judged more than men on their looks. It's how it is, you just have to grin and bear it. (ANI)