The effectiveness of an online-directed sports nutrition education program for adult triathletes

Abstract

Background: Triathlon is a physically demanding sport that many adults partake in to live a healthy lifestyle. Research has shown that individuals who partake in this sport have the potential to improve their nutrition knowledge. Adequate nutrition is vital for triathlon performance, especially as the distance increases. A needs assessment was conducted revealing the need for education in pre-workout, post-workout, and specific supplementation. Objectives: This study aims to determine the effectiveness of an online sports nutrition education program in adult triathletes. Methods: A four-week nutrition education program, including one optional food demonstration, tailored to the findings from the needs assessment was created. An abridged form of the Sports Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (SNKQ) was used along with questions created by the author of the study in this pre/post-test design. Results: Analysis was conducted using SPSS statistics, identifying a significant overall improvement in sports nutrition knowledge (p=0.01), and on supplements (p=0.04). Conclusions: On this basis, an online nutrition education program for adult recreational triathletes suggests remote delivery of nutrition education may be beneficial if an online option is deemed appropriate.