The Risk of Disordered Eating in Fitness Club Members
Author Information
Author(s): Gjestvang Christina, Mathisen Therese F., Bratland-Sanda Solfrid, Haakstad Lene A. H.
Primary Institution: Norwegian School of Sports Sciences
Hypothesis
Fitness club members would exhibit a notable prevalence of a risk for disordered eating, similar to trends observed in fitness instructors.
Conclusion
One out of five participants reported being at risk of disordered eating, with higher body appreciation associated with a lower risk.
Supporting Evidence
- 19.4% of participants were at risk of disordered eating.
- 62.5% stated their body weight affected their self-perception.
- Those at risk had a higher mean BMI compared to those not at risk.
Takeaway
Many people who go to gyms might worry about their eating habits and body image, and feeling good about your body can help you avoid these worries.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study using an online survey to assess disordered eating risk, body appreciation, and exercise motivation among gym members.
Potential Biases
Potential social desirability bias in self-reported data.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable due to self-selection bias and a skewed demographic, with only 17% of participants being men.
Participant Demographics
Participants had a mean age of 39.6 years, with 76.8% being members of fitness clubs for more than one year.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.032
Confidence Interval
95% CI for OR: 0.15, 0.39
Statistical Significance
p ≤ 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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