Analysis of the consumption of sports supplements in elite fencers according to sex and competitive level

Abstract

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This study aimed to investigate the consumption of sports supplements (SS) among competitive fencers and assess differences based on gender and competitive level (international and national). A total of 49 fencers, consisting of 18 men and 31 women, from both national (n = 16) and international (n = 33) levels, participated in the study. They completed a questionnaire regarding SS consumption and its potential impact on health and sports performance. The data was analyzed using categorizations established by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), as well as considering gender and competitive level.

The findings revealed that 46.9% of fencers had consumed SS, primarily motivated by performance improvement (34.2%). Interestingly, medical doctors were more likely to recommend SS to men (50.0% vs 5.6%), while friends were the primary source of advice for women (38.9% vs 8.3%). The most commonly consumed SS included sport drinks (44.9%), vitamin C (43.4%), sport bars (38.8%), and caffeine (28.6%). Differences were observed in the interaction between gender and medical supplements, and there was a higher prevalence of whey protein consumption in women and iron consumption in men.

In conclusion, the prevalence of SS use among fencers aligns with previous reports for athletes of similar competitive levels. There were no significant differences in SS consumption by gender or competitive level. Sport drinks, bars, and caffeine were the most frequently used types of supplements.