Energy availability and RED-S risk assessment among Kho-Kho players in India

Energy availability (EA) is considered an important measure for athletes, particularly due to the possible health and performance outcomes defined under the RED-S. Low EA is reported to have far-reaching health consequences among female athletes, especially in weight-sensitive sport. However, it is less explored among male athletes, particularly in the traditional Indian tag sport called Kho-Kho. This cross-sectional observational study aimed to determine the prevalence of LEA and associated RED-S health and performance outcomes among Kho-Kho players.

Fifty-two male national-level Kho-Kho players aged 16-31 years were assessed for energy availability, bone mineral density (BMD), sleep quality, disordered eating, selected metabolic (hemoglobin, blood glucose, etc.) and performance outcomes (agility, speed, and power) as per RED-S risk assessment tool. Differences across the low EA (≤ 25 kcal/ kg fat-free mass) and Optimal EA (> 25 kcal/ kg fat-free mass) groups were evaluated using the Independent Samples t test and the chi-square test.

Low EA among athletes was associated with lower z-scores for BMD, sleep quality and agility, compared to athletes with optimal EA. At least one moderate-to-high RED-S risk outcome was prevalent among 98% of the Kho-Kho players, irrespective of EA. Most athletes exhibited a lower EAT score and disordered eating outcomes, with no significant differences across groups.

The male Kho-Kho players showed a prevalence of low EA that can be due to higher training loads and unintentional under-eating, not related to an eating disorder. The players also exhibited higher RED-S risk outcomes; however, it was irrespective of low EA.