Specifics of eating behavior and external pressure factors in students engaged in gymnastic sports

The purpose of the study is a comparative analysis of the characteristics of eating behavior, subjective perception of body weight parameters, and external factors among student-athletes of a general sports sample and those specializing in gymnastic sports. Research methods and organization. An online survey was completed by students – gymnasts and representatives of other sports. A specialized questionnaire was used, including questions about dietary habits and external pressure during their implementation. Data processing was performed using exploratory factor analysis, clustering, logistic regression, and structural equation modeling (SEM). Research results and conclusions. A three-factor structure of eating behavior among student-athletes has been confirmed. It has been established that those engaged in gymnastic sports have a statistically significantly higher level of restrictive behavior. In this group, psychological pressure from the coach is more frequently recorded, and it is a stronger predictor of dietary restrictions. Cluster analysis revealed a predominance of the "restrictive type" of eating behavior among gymnasts. The specifics of gymnastic sports are associated with an increased risk of developing rigid dietary strategies. The obtained data justify the need to develop preventive psycho-pedagogical programs aimed at correcting approaches to athletes' weight regulation issues.