Creencias, actitudes y conductas de riesgo de entrenadores en relación con el peso de sus deportistas: un estudio descriptivo

Coaches are one of the main reference figures for the athlete, and the pressure exerted by them through their attitudes and behaviours can be one of the most influential factors in developing a high concern for weight and appearance. The purpose of this study was to ascertainb the beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours of coaches of different sport modalities and categories regarding nutrition and the body, and the control they exercise over the diet and weight of their athletes. A total of 127 male (73.2%) and female coaches (26.8%) participated in the study. The participants trained different sports modalities and categories, and had a diverse experience as coaches. They voluntarily filled out an online ad hoc survey with questions about different potential risk factors related to athlete nutrition and weight. A significant number of coaches found to have risk beliefs, attitudes, and practices in relation to weight of their athletes and their control over it. Many coaches do not know how to get advice and how to properly advise their athletes in relation to diet and weight control, which further complicates the situation. It is very important that coaches have specific training on nutrition and weight management in athletes and resources to identify and manage subclinical and clinical eating disorders, and that they receive adequate help from other relevant professionals.