ED prevalence in athletes is significantly higher than in the general population, with data suggesting between 6 – 45% of female athletes and ~19% male athletes, have an ED 3, 4. A unique concern for this highly active population is how to assess, conceptualize, and (if necessary) manage exercise behavior, which has historically been considered a symptom of EDs. Between 3 to 77% of athletes report DEX, suggesting our understanding of DEX in athletes is greatly impacted by our definition or classification of this behavior 1. Some exercise motivations are consistent across athlete and non-athlete populations with an ED (e.g., weight and shape concerns, positive mood reinforcement, negative affect avoidance, rigidity, complusivity). Unique to this population, however, athletes often face pressures to continue their existing training regimen to meet competition demands in the presence of an ED.

Research Foundations