Female Athlete Triad/Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport and Muscle Power in High-Performance Volleyball Athletes

Abstract

Introduction: Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) is a condition that affects the health and performance of female athletes, particularly in team sports such as volleyball. Characterized by a state of low energy availability, RED-S can lead to various physical and psychological consequences, including menstrual disturbances, chronic fatigue, and eating disorders. Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between RED-S and physical fitness in volleyball athletes. Methods: The research will be conducted in accordance with ethical guidelines, ensuring participant consent, and will utilize validated questionnaires and performance tests for data collection, specifically the vertical jump test. Inclusion Criteria: Age 18 years or older; at least one year of sports practice; sport: volleyball. Exclusion Criteria: Athletes injured during the research period; those who have been away from training for at least three months. A detailed medical history will be taken, along with measurements of jump height and analysis of results. To check for possible correlations between RED- S and physical fitness variables, the Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficient will be calculated, depending on the distribution of the variables. Expected Results: It is anticipated that the results will contribute to the understanding of RED-S and its implications for the physical fitness of female athletes.