A paired-match study: Equine athletes’ nutritional habits, anthropometric measurements, and postures

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The Mediterranean diet-MeD provides beneficial nutrients that improve athletes’ health. Posture is important for the performance of equine athletes-EA. This study aimed to determine adherence to the MeD, anthropometric measurements, and postures of EA. Methods: There were two study groups, EA(n:121) and non-athletes(n:121). The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index, the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener, the Food Frequency Questionnaire, the New York Posture Analyses-NYPA, an electronic scale, and a non-stretch tape were used. Results: EA’s MeD-characterized food consumption (vegetables, fruits, fish) frequencies were more compatible with recommendations(p<0.05). Whereas body height, body mass index-BMI, and waist circumference were not related to NYPA scores in non-athletes, negative correlations were found in EA(p<0.05). 62.8% of riders had moderate and high adherence to the MeD, with children performing better than adults(p:0.003). The prevalence of preobesity/obesity was higher among adult riders(p:0.008). Professional adult riders had a lower health risk based on their waist circumferences than amateurs(p:0.036). Conclusion: Some anthropometric measurements showed a negative association with riders’ postures. Although there was no statistical difference between the MeD adaptations and BMI classifications between study groups, the age group influenced these two variables in riders. Equestrian sports subgroups were also found to have an impact on athlete health.

Keywords

• Equiestrian sports
• nutrition
• posture
• anthropometric measurements

Supporting Institution

None

Ethical Statement

This study was approved and registered by the Ethics Committee of Near East University on 30.06.2022. (YDU/2022/104-1574).

Thanks

The authors would like to thank all the North Cyprus Equestrian Federation board members, especially Mr. Hamza Ruso, and all the riding club owners for their supportive contributions.

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