Understanding the level of BMI, diet, and physical activity in ATs, specifically between genders

Authors

  • Emily Madrak The University of Virginia
  • Ki Cole Oklahoma State University
  • Bridget Miller
  • Jennifer Volberding

Abstract

Background: Though athletic trainers have a foundation in health, their behaviors are studied far less than their patients. We aimed to investigate health behaviors in ATs by gender to understand disparities and improve health outcomes.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was implement via online survey in 2020. It featured a demographic section, a section regarding eating patterns via KomPAN survey, and physical activity scale. Participants included athletic trainers with active credentials and considered “normally functioning” via a researcher-provided definition. They were recruited via the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Research Survey Service. Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to differentiate BMI, healthy versus unhealthy diet, and physical activity level by gender.

Results: BMI was significant, with cisgender men likely to have greater a BMI than cisgender women, MD=1.64, p=0.03. The healthy diet index scored lower compared to unhealthy but lacked significance. Additionally, 77% of ATs met PA guidelines.

Discussions: Our research suggests differences in health, specifically BMI exist by gender in ATs, which is noteworthy for understanding health disparities and creating solutions. In terms of the future of health and wellness in ATs, programming for worksite health promotion, is indicated to foster greater wellbeing for ATs and therefore better patient-centered outcomes. Bringing awareness to gender differences in health and well-being can assist in better advocacy for improved work-site health solutions. 

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Published

2025-10-30

Issue

Vol. 9 No. 5 (2025): Articles

Section

Athletic Training

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