Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports (RED-S) and Performance among Athletes

Introduction. RED-S is a critical condition that impairs athletic performance and health due to an imbalance between energy in-take and expenditure. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of RED-S and its relationship with performance among athletes.

Material and Methods. A purposive sample of 250 athletes, aged 18-25 years, competing at district, state, and national levels, was selected from two universities in Tamil Nadu, India. Athletes with severe injuries were excluded. Background information was obtained using a structured interview schedule, and RED-S risk was assessed through the RED-S Questionnaire. Athletic performance was evaluated using standardized measures of muscular strength, flexibility, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness.

Results. Findings indicated that 74% of female and 51% of male athletes were at moderate risk of RED-S (X² = 17.58, p = 0.00). Participation in intermittent and endurance sports was associated with significantly higher RED-S scores, particularly among females (X² = 7.72, p = 0.02, X² =11.9, p = 0.00). ANOVA revealed significant differences in RED-S scores across BMI categories for both genders, with normal-weight, overweight, and obese athletes unexpectedly showing elevated risk (males: f = 7.67, p = 0.05; females: f = 6.06, p = 0.02). Strong negative correlations were found between RED-S scores and key performance metrics such as cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, and muscular strength – especially among female athletes, with similar patterns observed in males.

Conclusions. These findings highlight the importance of early identification, education, and implementation of targeted nutritional and training interventions to mitigate RED-S risk and enhance athlete well-being and performance.