Dietary habits and body composition in amateur rhythmic gymnastics

Introduction: rhythmic gymnastics is a highly demanding aesthetic sport that has been associated with an increased risk of eating disorders, body dissatisfaction and nutritional deficits. Objectives: providing data on the dietary habits and body composition of Spanish amateur rhythmic gymnasts. Methods: descriptive transversal study on 56 female amateur rhythmic gymnasts practicing within clubs belonging to the Galician Gymnastics Federation, categorized into pre-teens (10-12 yrs) and teens (13-18 yrs). Anthropometric measurements were performed following ISAK protocols and complemented with bioimpedance. Dietary intake was qualitative and quantitatively determined through a three-day food record and a food frequency questionnaire. Physical activity level was estimated by an activity and training record. The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-40) was used to identify disordered eating attitudes. Results: anthropometric data showed significantly lower z-scores, body fat percentage, triceps skinfold thickness, and waist-to-hip ratio in pre-teen gymnasts than in teens, and higher body water and mineral mass percentages. Pre-teens accumulated higher training load. Energy intake was lower than estimated energy expenditure and Spanish recommendations. The intake of fiber, legumes, fruit, vegetables, oils and fats did not reach the recommendations, while sugar and protein exceeded them. EAT-40 reflected no signs of eating disorders, with older gymnasts showing higher scores. Conclusions: suboptimal intake of energy and certain food groups such as legumes, vegetables, fruit and healthy fats, plus high training loads, could negatively impact health and performance of young female athletes. Considering the high nutritional and physical demands of rhythmic gymnastics, attention should be addressed to their diet and eating behaviors.