Abstract

CISTERNAS-BUSTOS, Rosario et al. Risk eating behaviors and concern for body image in Chilean gymnasts. Rev. Mex. de trastor. aliment [online]. 2020, vol.10, n.4, pp.384-396.  Epub May 09, 2022. ISSN 2007-1523.  https://doi.org/10.22201/fesi.20071523e.2020.2.662.

Rhythmic Gymnastics (RM) is an aesthetic sport where thinness is an important factor for success. The present research aimed to analyze risk behaviors and the level of concern of body image perception in Chilean elite gymnasts. We proceeded to analyze risky eating behaviors and the perception of body image in 53 gymnasts, through the application of the Eating Attitude Test (EAT - 26), the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and focus groups. A 67.9% showed no concern for body image, 15.1% showed mild concern, 13.2% showed moderate concern and 3.8% showed extreme concern. Similarly, 67.9% did not show risk of eating behavior and 32.1% did show this condition. There is a relationship between risky eating behaviors and body image perception (p=0.028). The focus groups revealed that the gymnasts indicated that they are uncomfortable with their figure and that they leave out some nutrients in their diet, and that their coaches give instructions or opinions about the figure of their gymnasts in “inappropriate” and “unprofessional” ways. They also recognize that they are not satisfied with their image and express concern about the opinion of third parties.

Keywords : eating behavior; body image; rhythmic gymnastics; sport.

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