How are the needs of female athletes addressed to enable their continued participation in

sports? (12 marks)

Addressing medical conditions that are prevalent in female athletes, including eating disorders,
iron deficiency, inadequate bone density and pregnancy is essential in maintaining their
participation in sport.

As a result of physical and psychological demands, female athletes increase their risk of
developing an eating disorder (ED). The pressure to maintain a specific weight and appearance
to maximise performance and/or meeting an ideal appearance contributes to this risk. This is
prevalent in aesthetic sports (42%) e.g. gymnastics and dance alongside endurance sports
(24%) such as running, and cycling. The AIS states that up to 45% of female athletes suffer
from an ED. Nutrient deficiencies and chronic fatigue impact an athlete’s health and result in a
reduction of energy available for muscular contractions, impairing performance and increasing
their risk of health consequences. Female athletes who suffer from an ED are referred to a
psychologist who will encourage healthier weight management, eating habits and address
underlying psychological factors. Ultimately, enhancing athletic performance and enabling
continued participation.

Iron deficiency is another common concern among female athletes due to menstrual blood loss
and the iron demands of high-intensity training. Low iron levels can impair aerobic metabolism,
reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and limiting the muscles' ability to produce energy efficiently.
Efficient oxygen delivery is essential in endurance sports (marathon) as it sustains energy
production and prevents fatigue. Cleveland Clinic states that up to 35% of female athletes have
iron deficiency. To ensure safe participation in sport, the female athlete is required to undertake
a diagnosis that assesses their diet, symptoms and ongoing blood monitoring. Female athletes
are encouraged to incorporate red meat, seafood and poultry in their diet to maintain iron levels.
Supporting their overall health and performance, therefore, continuation within sport.

Female athletes are susceptible osteoporosis due to hormonal fluctuations and calcium/vitamin
D deficiencies. Bone density is directly related to the quantity of calcium in the bones, affecting
their thickness and strength. According to the Gatorade Sports Science Institute, bone stress
injuries are 2-4x more common among female athletes than male athletes. This includes
overuse injuries such as patellar tendinitis, caused via frequent jumping in e.g.
basketball/volleyball. Therefore, maintaining a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, monitoring
menstrual health and engaging in weight-bearing exercises such as jogging and tennis are
essential for optimal bone health. Enabling the continuation of female athlete participation in
sport.

Addressing specific guidelines ensures safety for pregnant athletes when continuing
participation in physical activity. Recognising and acknowledging changes in an individual’s
body and fitness ability is essential. Including an increase in body weight usually 10-15kg and
loosened of ligaments which alter an athlete’s centre of gravity. This impacts their balance and
coordination, increasing injury risk. Pregnant athletes often experience difficulty
thermoregulating, making them more susceptible to overheating. It is crucial to hydrate, avoid
exercising in the heat/humidity and taking frequent breaks. Pregnant athletes are advised to
avoid jumping, contact sports (rugby), frequent changes of direction, excessive stretching and
ballistic movements during the 2nd and 3rd trimester. Individuals experiencing absolute
contraindications e.g. gestational hypertension and/or relative contraindications e.g.
hypertension should refrain from physical activity. However, able pregnant athletes are
encouraged to participate in low-intensity, aerobic exercises e.g. walking, to promote
cardiovascular health, enhance mood, and maintain fitness without putting excessive strain on
the body.

Addressing the needs of female athletes such as eating disorders, iron deficiency, bone density
and pregnancy through education, medical support and appropriate training modifications can
effectively manage their continued participation in sports.
How are the needs of adult and aged athletes with medical conditions addressed to
enable their continued participation in sport? (12 marks)

Addressing medical conditions prevalent in adult and aged athletes, including heart conditions,
fractures, inadequate bone density, lack of flexibility, and joint mobility, is essential for
maintaining their participation in sports.

Individuals suffering from heart issues, such as high blood pressure and hypertension, due to
cumulative impacts of intense, prolonged exercise. Research shows that athletes are 2.5x more
likely than non-athletes to suffer from atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythms). Therefore, it is
recommended that aged athletes avoid strenuous physical activity and are advised to work
between 60% - 70% of their maximum heart rate (MHR). This can include low-impact aerobic
exercises such as swimming and walking for atleast 30 minutes, three times a week.
Additionally, athletes who suffer from any heart conditions require medical clearance from their
doctor before continuing their involvement in sports. This is essential for reducing injury risk,
maintaining cardiovascular health, and preserving fitness without placing excessive stress on
the body.

Adult and aged athletes are susceptible to osteoporosis due to the natural decline in bone
density, associated with age. Bone density is directly related to the quantity of calcium in the
bones, affecting their thickness and strength. Therefore, poor bone density increases the risk of
injury, specifically fractures from falling. However, the risk of injury can be reduced through
aerobic exercises (walking), weight-bearing exercises (jogging), avoidance of contact sports and
stressful activities for athletes with poor bone density. Additionally, a healthy diet incorporating
calcium and vitamin d often found within seafood and dairy contribute significantly to healthy
bones. This helps preserve bone density, improve muscle strength, balance, and ultimately
reduces the risk of injury. Therefore, ensuring safe participation in physical activity for aged and
adult athletes.

Furthermore, flexibility and joint mobility often declines simultaneously due to a decrease in
sport participation associated with age. This impacts an individual’s athletic performance as it
can lead to muscle stiffness and decrease in ROM. Reduced participation of sports increases
their risk of injury, specifically of strains and sprains. Therefore, the utilisation of regular
stretching and flexibility exercises can aid in preserving joint mobility and enhance overall
athletic ability. Additionally, actively participating in low-intensity, aerobic exercise will contribute
towards enhancing quality of life alongside, long-term joint health. Supporting the continuation of
participation of sport among aged and adult athletes.

Due to the natural decrease in participation of aged and adult athletes within sport, modifying
rules specific to various sports can aid in encouraging continued involvement. For example,
individuals aged 35 and older who play rugby union benefit from modifications such as
depowering the scrum, reducing game times to four 15-minute quarters instead of two
40-minute halves, and allowing substitutions at any time. These changes reduce the risk of
concussions, spinal injuries, heat illness, and severe fatigue, ensuring the game remains
enjoyable and safe for older players. Providing them with an opportunity to continue
participation.

Addressing the needs of adult and aged athletes such as heart conditions, bone density,
flexibility and joint mobility through education, medical support and appropriate training
modifications can effectively manage their continued participation in sports.