RISK OF EATING DISORDERS AND BODY DISSATISFACTION AMONG GYM-GOERS IN ANKARA, TURKEY

ABSTRACT Introduction: Although regular exercise is widely recommended to promote optimal health, it is thought that gym-goers are at risk for body dissatisfaction and eating disorders. Objective: This study assessed the risk of eating disorders and the prevalence of body dissatisfaction in gym-goers enrolled in a gym located in the city of Ankara, the capital of Turkey. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 206 gym-goers, 102 males (mean age of 25.8±7.86 years) and 104 females (mean age of 26.5±9.07 years), who regularly exercised at least twice a week at this gym during the years 2018 to 2019. Demographic characteristics and exercise status of the participants were collected through face-to-face interviews via a questionnaire form. The REZZY (SCOFF) questionnaire was administered to determine the risk of eating disorders and the Stunkard Figure Rating Scale was administered to determine body dissatisfaction. Results: The mean REZZY score in females (1.4±1.21) was higher than in males (0.8 ± 1.05) (p