Exploring the prevalence of eating disorders, low sex drive, and exercise compulsion among professional and non-professional elite male Rugby union players

Rugby union exhibits large variations in the idealised player physical profiles across positions. The pursuit of physique ideals with limited professional support can influence eating disorder symptomology, exercise compulsion, and low sexual drive. The primary aims were to (1) explore the prevalence of elite male rugby union players who are at risk for eating disorders, low sex drive, and exercise compulsion, and (2) explore the relationship between risk and players’ professional status, weight, age, and playing position. A secondary aim was to explore the nutritional service support and dietary monitoring practices experienced by the players. Participants were recruited from four elite professional rugby union squads in Ireland. Players (≥tier3) over 18 years of age and training ≥ three times per week were eligible. Participants completed the eating disorder examination questionnaire, exercise addiction inventory, and sex drive section of the low energy availability in males questionnaire. Ninety-seven players participated in the study. The mean age of participants was 22 ± 4 years. Eating disorder risk (9.3%), reported low sex drive (20.6%), and exercise compulsion (16.5%) was indicated. Players in the forwards position, regardless of professional status, reported higher eating concerns (p = 0.03). No significant difference was identified between professional status or position when determining sex drive. Access to a nutritionist (99%) and dietary monitoring practices (68%) was reported by players. Awareness of low sex drive and disordered eating in elite rugby should be encouraged, alongside access to professional nutritional support. Further research is needed to understand the contextual risk factors in male players.