Borrione Paolo, Claudia Bat
Abstract
In aesthetic sports success is strongly influenced by body appearance and eating disorder risks prevail in aesthetic athletes. Previous studies demonstrated that rhythmic gymnasts showed a “lean, almost anorexic-like physique†but no psychological distress. Recently, researchers used body image perception and dissatisfaction to detect gymnast eating disorders. The results showed that elite rhythmic gymnasts are very thin but have a precise estimation of their body image, and this condition leads to hypothesize that they are not at risk for eating disorders development. A correct evaluation of one’s own body image is essential in prevention of pathological eating behaviours.