A Alimentação no Desporto de Competição: Como Alterar Comportamentos? Um Estudo numa Equipa Feminina de Voleibol

Abstract

The adoption of a healthy lifestyle is related to the increase of quality of life and reduction of the number of associated pathologies, which leads to healthier persons. Aligned with the health of the individual, the athletic performance is influenced by food, and the athlete performance depends on a correct diet and needs to be adapted to his sporting goal. An intervention focused on food education may help change behaviours, leading to a healthier lifestyle. Based on this premise, a case study is presented at a Portuguese federated volleyball club. This study aimed to characterize the dietary habits of 12 female senior athletes and to analyse which factors are considered for the athletes as potentiators, or inhibitors, to change these eating behaviours. Based on the Transtheoretical Model, this study adopted a research design in three moments (initial evaluation, implementation of an intervention program and final evaluation) based on quantitative and qualitative instruments. The option of a mixed methodological approach allows a relational and informed dynamic between the discourses of the athletes in the focus groups (characterization of eating behaviour) and a perspective of validation in the questionnaire response (Decision-making, Transtheoretical Model applied to nutrition, Food at the previous 24 hours). Considering the 12 participants in the study, 8 athletes manifested changes in their eating behaviour; have been able to identify the strengths and constraints of a more balanced diet in their daily routine and performance in training and competition. The intervention performed predisposed these athletes to adopt a more conscious and balanced set of eating strategies.