Effects of Peer-Education on Knowledge of the Female Athlete Triad Among High School Track and Field Athletes: A Pilot Study
in Women in Sport and Physical Activity JournalClick name to view affiliation
This quasi-experimental study aimed to assess risk for the female athlete triad (Triad) and pilot a peer-led Triad educational intervention. Twenty-nine female high school track and field athletes (N = 29) at one high school in the western United States consented to participate. Participants were weighed and measured, and completed pre- and postsurveys that included Triad risk factor questions and 10 questions assessing Triad knowledge. 54% of athletes reported current menstrual irregularity; 7% reported a history of stress fractures. Significant increases in Triad knowledge were observed pre- to postintervention (4.7 ± 2.6 to 7.7 ± 1.78 out of 10; p < .0001). Triad education was generally accepted and enjoyed by participants; however, 86% preferred that a coach or other adult provide education instead of a peer.
Brown is with the Department of Food and Nutrition, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID. Wengreen is with the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah. Beals is with the Division of Nutrition at University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah. Heath is with the Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Utah State University, Logan, Utah.
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