Nutrition assessment of horse-racing athletes.

This study looks into the nutritional habits and issues of jockeys and their interest in nutrition education. The jockeys’ strict weight restrictions often lead them to adopt unhealthy practices to maintain their racing weight.

Research Methodology

• The researchers conducted a nutritional assessment using the Nutrition Care Process. This is a systematic process used by dietitians to provide high quality nutrition care.
• They interviewed twenty jockeys using an assessment form designed to pinpoint areas of disordered eating.
• They investigated specific details including Body Mass Index (BMI), average weight loss on race day, methods used for weight loss, and ease of maintaining weight.

Key Findings

• The range of the jockeys’ BMI during the racing season was between 17.0 to 21.4, with only one jockey falling under the “underweight” category. When the jockeys were not racing, this range increased to 19.1-24.0.
• The most prevalent method of weight loss among the jockeys was the use of steam rooms. On average, they would lose around 2.5 lb in one day using this method.
• Eight out of the twenty jockeys reported that it was very easy for them to maintain their racing weight.
• Most of the jockeys expressed an interest in receiving further education on meal planning and healthy food ideas.

Implications and Conclusions

• This study identifies a notable gap between the potentially damaging practices jockeys employ to maintain their racing weight and nutritionally sound methods.
• The findings further fuel the current discussions on the unhealthy weight loss practices among jockeys.
• The expressed interest in nutritional education suggests that jockeys are aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy weight for their performance and overall health.
• The findings provide a basis for developing appropriate nutrition education materials and presentations for this particular group of athletes. Such resources should encompass practical strategies that support healthy weight management, including meal planning and healthy food ideas.