Scheduled for Dance Free Communications, Thursday, April 1, 2004, 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM, Convention Center: 208


The Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Dancers in Regards to Diet and Nutrition

Brenda Griner1, George Strickland1, Daniel R. Chilek2 and Amy Shows1, (1)Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, (2)Lamar University, Beaumont

One-hundred and fifty-one regional dancers were given a survey to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in regards to diet and nutrition. The data were analyzed using Statview Statistical Software. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square, and simple regression analysis were used to analyze knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding diet, nutrition, and body image. An alpha of .05 was utilized to determine significance. The regional dancers in this study demonstrated fair general knowledge of basic nutrition except for the role of carbohydrates and vitamins. Although these dancers were at a low disease risk (BMI 20-29.99) (n=77) or in the high disease risk category for being too thin (BMI <20) (n=60), many of them exhibited poor attitudes concerning body image. The behaviors of the regional dancers in this study indicated deficiencies in carbohydrate and water intake. These findings agree with previous research showing poor attitudes and behaviors of dancers in regards to diet, body image, and nutrition.
Keyword(s): dance education

Back to the 2004 AAHPERD National Convention and Exposition