Profile of young adults practitioners of physical exercises in gymnastics academies in the city of Sao Paulo

Abstract

Introduction: The search for a standard body has become increasingly visible in society among young adults, mainly due to the easy access to the media where there is an intense dissemination of information. Consequently, they take measures, such as diets, supplements and physical exercises, to get what they want. When not supervised by trained professionals, it can become harmful to health. The practice of physical exercises combined with a healthy diet should aim at health and not just body image. Objective: To evaluate the profile of young adults, practitioners of physical exercises and regulars in gyms in the city of Sao Paulo. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study, carried out in gyms in the city of Sao Paulo from August to November 2019. A questionnaire developed and applied by the researchers themselves was used, containing questions about the practice of exercise, main types of food consumed, diets, use of supplements, among others. Results: Most of them attend gyms between 3 and 5 times a week, with health and aesthetics being the main reasons. Almost 50% have already eaten some type of diet, mostly indicated by nutritionists. In addition, 60.9% do not use dietary supplements and most say they are aware of the effects they can cause on the human body. Among consumers, 48% say they consume on their own initiative. Conclusion: There is a search for balance between healthy eating and exercise by the participants, noting a good consumption of all food groups, except oilseeds and whole grains.