Eating disorder symptoms in runners, cyclists, and paddlers

To differentiate groups of highly conditioned, competitive athletes on the basis of Exercise Orientation Questionnaire (EOQ) scores and self-reported psychiatric symptoms.

A total of 99 runners, 36 cyclists, and 55 paddlers were administered the EOQ and a symptom checklist.

Analysis of variance and chi-square associated self-loathing subscale (SLSS) scores with self-reported eating disorder (ED) symptoms for the entire group [F(1)=4.83; P<.05] and for females only [F(1)=9.30; P<.001]. The paddler group reported more anxiety/panic symptoms than runners or cyclists (chi(2)=7.91; P<.01) and higher SLSS scores than cyclists [F(2)=6.91; P<.01]. The female-only paddler group reported more anxiety/panic [chi(2)(1)=10.27; P<.001] than the other groups. Although total group scores were comparable to controls, 12% runners, 14% cyclists, and 18% paddlers scored above previously established ED patient mean.

The paddler group appeared less healthy than runners or cyclists and were more likely to report ED symptoms. These differences could have been related to a dissimilar ethnic composition or particular social stress generated within paddling groups. In this study, SLSS was highly specific in its association with ED symptoms. This is of particular interest because SLSS is based on questions about exercise rather than eating pathology.