Weight loss practices and eating behaviours among female physique athletes: Acquiring the optimal body composition for competition
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Liverpool John Moores University; University of Chester; Nottingham Trent UniversityPublication Date
2022-01-14
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Little is known about weight loss practices and eating behaviours in female physique athletes. This study investigated the weight loss history, practices, and key influences during the pre-competition period in a large cohort of female physique athletes stratified by division and experience level. Eating attitudes and behaviours were assessed to identify whether athletes were at risk of developing an eating disorder. Using a cross-sectional research design, female physique athletes (n = 158) were recruited and completed an anonymous online self-reported survey consisting of two validated questionnaires: Rapid Weight Loss Questionnaire and Eating Attitudes Test-26. Irrespective of division or experience, female physique athletes used a combination of weight loss practices during the pre-competition phase. Gradual dieting (94%), food restriction (64%) and excessive exercise (84%), followed by body water manipulation via water loading (73%) were the most commonly used methods. Overall, 37% of female physique athletes were considered at risk of developing an eating disorder. Additionally, 42% of female physique athletes used two pathogenic weight control methods with 34% of Figure novice athletes indicating binge eating once a week or more. The coach (89%) and another athlete (73%) were identified as key influences on athletes' dieting practices and weight loss. The prevalence of athletes identified with disordered eating symptoms and engaging in pathogenic weight control methods is concerning. In future, female physique athletes should seek advice from registered nutritionists to optimise weight management practices and minimise the risk of developing an eating disorder.Citation
Alwan, N., Moss, S. L, Davies, I. G., Elliott-Sale, K. J., & Enright, K. (2022). Weight loss practices and eating behaviours among female physique athletes: Acquiring the optimal body composition for competition. PLoS ONE, 17(1), e0262514. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0262514Publisher
Public Library of ScienceJournal
PLoS OneAdditional Links
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35030218/https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0262514#:~:text=Gradual%20dieting%20(94%25)%2C%20food,of%20developing%20an%20eating%20disorder.
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1932-6203ae974a485f413a2113503eed53cd6c53
10.1371/journal.pone.0262514
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