Rhythmic gymnastics, is a healthy or a deleterious sport for the athletes? An exploratory study on eating disorders in southern Italy

Background: The practice of sports is not always associated with the concept of health. Rhythmic gymnastics often witnesses athletes adopting unhealthy eating habits. This may lead to eating disorders. Aims: This study aims to evaluate a sample of rhythmic gymnasts from Southern Italy in terms of eating habits, eating disorders, and menstrual cycles disorders. Methods: Girls under 19 years of age who practice rhythmic gymnastics answered two questionnaires: the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26); and the Bulimic Investigatory Test Edinburgh (BITE). An health questionnaire was also proposed. Results: The participants had a mean body mass index of 17.9 ± 2.2 kg/m2; 33.33% of the gymnasts reported a score ≥ 20 in the EAT, indicating a possible eating disorder. On the BITE Symptom subscale, 6.7% of the gymnasts had a score between 10 and 19 (abnormal eating habits); 10% scored ≥ 20 (highly disordered eating possible binge eating). Some gymnasts presented altered menstrual cycle. Conclusion: the findings emphasize the need for special attention to eating disorders, menstrual alteration, and education among rhythmic gymnasts. Coaches and team managers should institute monitoring and preventive measures to address these issues as athletes transition into adulthood