Author(s): FERGUSON, C., BROWN, H., SLATER, G., GRIFFITHS, S., ANDERSON, S., SAUNDERS, N., CONDO, D., Institution: DEAKIN UNIVERSITY, Country: AUSTRALIA, Abstract-ID: 708

Introduction:
The high-performance sport environment commonly sees athletes and coaches developing perceptions that particular physique characteristics are conducive to competitive success (1,2). While specific physique traits may impact performance in some sports, an overemphasis on physique can create problematic experiences that may negatively impact performance and wellbeing. Research surrounding the factors shaping physique cultures and why some athletes report positive physique experiences while others encounter difficulties is scarce within high-performance sport. This study aimed to understand, amongst athletes and coaches, how and to what extent current experiences of physique in high-performance sport environments in Australia influence athlete wellbeing, performance, and perceptions of competitive success across six sport categories.
Methods:
An interview guide was developed by the research team, informed by the athlete-centred ecological model for understanding systems of influence. Pilot interviews were conducted prior to data collection to refine the guide. Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted in person and online with elite athletes (n = 28) and coaches (n = 21) from 26 sports representing endurance (e.g., swimming, road cycling), aesthetic (e.g., gymnastics), weight-category (e.g., boxing, judo), ball (e.g., netball, rugby), power (e.g., sprinting, powerlifting), and technical (e.g., alpine skiing) disciplines. Sport categories were determined by similar physique, training, or competition characteristics (3,4). All participants were recruited from National Institute Networks and National Sporting Organisations. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, with themes generated inductively and subsequently interpreted using the ecological model. Analysis followed the six phases of familiarisation, coding, theme generation, theme review, theme definition and naming, and writing (5). Coding was completed by two researchers and reviewed by a third, ensuring rigor.
Results:
Six themes were identified relating to athlete and coach perceptions and experiences of physique, attributes linked to competitive success, and athlete wellbeing: i) The athlete and coach relationship. ii) Access and availability to evidence-based knowledge and resources. iii) Influence of positive role models. iv) Emphasis on body functionality. v) Influence of societal expectations. vi) Traditional, enduring physique cultures in sport.
Conclusion:
Physique experiences in high-performance sport are shaped by relational, cultural and individual factors. Environments that prioritise building trusting relationships, multi-disciplinary access, education, individualised approaches and process driven performance may be more supportive of athlete wellbeing and performance.
References:
[1] Teixidor-Batlle 2020/ [2] Meyer 2013/ [3] Sundgot-Borgen 1993/ [4] Mancine 2020/ [5] Braun 2022