Interactive intervention on fitness instructors’’ knowledge and confidence in handling cases of Low Energy Availability and Disordered Eating among Norwegian fitness center members: A pilot study to investigate the feasibility and effect of a short intervention on fitness instructors’' level of knowledge and perceived ability to manage low energy availability (LEA), relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs), disordered eating (DE) and eating disorders (ED).

Abstract

Background: The literature suggests that individuals with disordered eating (DE) and eating disorder (ED) tend to gravitate towards venues for physical activity and exercise. Numerous studies have consistently shown a notable lack of awareness and understanding of symptoms and signs related to DE among fitness instructors. The existing literature emphasizes the need for increased education of fitness center employees regarding ED symptoms and signs, along with appropriate responses to potential ED cases. Inadequate knowledge about the feasibility of interventions aimed at fitness instructors’ underscores the necessity of examining the feasibility of the intervention. The primary objective of this research was to examine the feasibility and results of an intervention designed to improve the knowledge and perceived competence of fitness instructors to address LEA and DE among members within Norwegian fitness centers.

Method: This study utilized a pilot study approach, incorporating an exploratory intervention with pre-post assessment. Adults (>18 years old) employed as personal trainers/group instructors were invited to participate.

Results: The intervention group exhibited improvements in both knowledge and confident to manage potential cases of LEA and DE among fitness center members. Specifically, there was a significant increase in the average knowledge score from 12 (SD=3.29) in the pretest to 24.33 (SD=4.33) in the posttest, indicating a doubling of knowledge acquisition (p 0.008). Additionally, most participants in the intervention group reported satisfaction with the implementation, content, and personal benefit derived from their participation in the intervention.

Conclusion: The intervention suggests the potential to enhance fitness instructors’' levels of knowledge and confidence in addressing LEA and DE within fitness center environments, thereby potentially contributing to the prevention of LEA and DE. However, the interpretation of results should consider methodological limitations and frameworks. Future research is recommended to prioritize the validation of assessment tools, diversifying sample demographics, and conducting longitudinal follow-up studies.