Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Exercise and Nutrition
Abstract
Introduction:This study evaluated the sports nutrition knowledge of NCAA Division III (DIII) athletes, examining the influence of demographic and sport-specific factors. Nutrition is a critical component of athletic performance, recovery, and overall health, yet prior research indicatescollegiate athletes often lack adequate nutrition knowledge.
Methods: A total of 412 athletes, representing 17 different sports across endurance, power, and skill categories, completed the validated Abridged Nutrition for Sport Knowledge Questionnaire (A-NSKQ). The sample included freshmen through fifth-year seniorathletes, predominantlyCaucasian (85%).
Results: The average A-NSKQ score was 17.1 out of 35 (48.9%), indicating suboptimal knowledge. Significant differences were found across multiple variables including sex(p=0.0018), class rank (p=0.0023), sport played(p<0.0001), and previousnutrition education(p=0.0011). A multiple regression analysis identified sportplayed (54%), class rank (16%), sex (13%), and prior nutrition education (11%) as significant predictors of A-NSKQ scores (R2= 0.26, p< 0.01). Conclusions:These results highlight the need for targeted, evidence-based nutrition education in DIII programs. Future research should explore how improved knowledgeinfluences dietary practices, athletic performance, and effective delivery of nutritional education.
First Page
1
Last Page
6
DOI
https://doi.org/10.53520/jen2025.103191
Publication Date
1-24-2025
Recommended Citation
Berends, Kerrie; Wierenga, Michael J.; and Frens, Madeline, "An Evaluation of Sports Nutrition Knowledge and Influencing Factors in NCAA Division III Athletes" (2025). University Faculty Publications and Creative Works. 892.
https://digitalcommons.calvin.edu/calvin_facultypubs/892
Included in
Exercise Science Commons, Higher Education Commons, Nutrition Commons, Sports Sciences Commons
Comments
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Copyright, 2025 by the authors. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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