BACKGROUND: Female fitness competitions are increasing in popularity. Athletes are participating in weight-cutting protocols to help reduce body fat percentage to improve muscle definition and physique.
METHODS: The goal of the study was to investigate weight-cutting practices and determine if these practices were associated with increased injury rates. A survey was distributed at a New England fitness competition.
RESULTS: Thirty-five female fitness competitors participated in the survey at a single competition. The calculated injury rate for female fitness competitors is 0.18 injuries per 1000 hours of training. Age over 35 (p=0.014) and a history of or current eating disorder (p=0.005) were significant risk factors for sustaining an injury. Menstrual cycle abnormalities were present in 11 of 35 individuals (31.4%).
CONCLUSIONS: Female fitness competitor injury rates are low; however, injuries were more common in athletes over age 35 and those with either a history of or a current eating disorder.