1
Faculty of Sports Sciences, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Türkiye
2
Yasar Dogu Faculty of Sports Sciences, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Türkiye
Abstract
The aim of this study is to examine the levels of professionalism and general and sports nutrition knowledge among student athletes pursuing a degree in sports education. As part of the research, 412 student athletes were administered the ‘Professionalism Scale for Athletes’ and the ‘General and Sports Nutrition Knowledge Scale’. Independent samples t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and LSD multiple comparison tests were used in the analysis of the data. Whilst no significant difference was found in professionalism scores according to gender (p>0.05), statistically significant differences were detected in general nutrition knowledge, athlete nutrition sub-dimensions and total nutrition knowledge scores (p<0.05). Significant differences were observed in professionalism, general nutrition knowledge, athlete nutrition knowledge and total nutrition knowledge scores according to age, years of sporting activity and body mass index categories (p<0.05 and p<0.001). In comparisons by sport type, statistically significant differences were found between individual and team athletes in terms of professionalism scores and athlete nutrition knowledge levels (p<0.05); however, no significant difference was found in general nutrition and total nutrition knowledge scores (p>0.05). With regard to the variable of licence status, a significant difference was observed only in professionalism scores (p<0.05), whilst no significant difference was found in nutrition knowledge levels (p>0.05). Furthermore, no significant relationship was found between professionalism level and nutrition knowledge levels (p>0.05). Conclusion: It was determined that student athletes’ nutritional knowledge levels showed significant differences depending on demographic variables such as gender, age, years of participation in sport and Body Mass Index, whilst the level of professionalism was associated with age, years of participation in sport, Body Mass Index, type of sport and licensing status. To enhance the level of professionalism among athletes, it is necessary to implement comprehensive education programmes that encompass not only cognitive but also attitudinal and behavioural dimensions. Furthermore, it is recommended that personalised and sustainable nutrition education policies be developed, taking into account individual variables such as age and duration of sporting activity.
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Osman Imamoglu
2
