Eating disorders and body image of gymnasts

Abstract

Objective: To determine the presence and prevalence of eating disorders, as well as dissatisfaction and distortion degree with body self-image in gymnasts comparing them with adolescents.

Materials and methods: The sample was composed of 29 athletes (14,8 ± 2,8 years)  in rhythmic gymnastics and 32 adolescent non-athletes (14,0 ±1,6 years). The Eating Attitudes Test were applied (EAT-26) and the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ). Body composition was obtained by anthropometry.

Results: EAT-26: 13.7% athletes and 15.6% adolescents; BSQ- Distortion of body self-image in degrees: 13.7% mild, 13.7% moderate and 6.8% severe between gymnasts and 37.5% light and 12.5% moderate among adolescents; Dissatisfaction with body self-image: 52.3% of gymnasts and 73% of non-athletes

Conclusions: Both gymnasts as adolescents have the presence of eating disorders, distorted to varying degrees and dissatisfaction with body self-image, picturing desire to lose weight.