Evaluation of physical activity and dietary behaviours in young athletes: pilot study

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the lifestyle, in according to physical activity and eating habits in young athletes. METHODS: In order to measure physical activity and eating habits in young people, 922 young athletes between the ages of 8 to 18 have been analyzed in this study. The participants were all patients came to our Department for sport eligibility evaluation; we have asked to them to complete an accurate questionnaire in order to assess their personal physical activity levels and their regular eating habits. Parents were invited to sign a letter who was explaining the aims of the study and for request permission for their child to take part on the study. RESULTS: The eating habits and the physical activity levels of the young athletes observed are resulted improper. We have noticed that the 13.7% of the participants were overweight and obese, despite their practiced sport activity. The physical activity, without sport activity, is resulted inadequate in 38.6% of participants: these ones didn't practices regular physical activity. CONCLUSION: The results of the study clearly indicate that higher education is therefore necessary in order to promote a healthy lifestyle in both terms of eating habits and physical activity not only in young people, but also in parents and coaches of teams.