Investigating mental health and energy deficiency in young biathletes

Mental Health and Symptoms of Energy Deficiency (REDs) in Young Biathletes.

Observational Ostfold University College · NCT06487260

This study looks at mental health and energy levels in young biathletes aged 16 to 18 to see how these issues relate to their age, sex, and performance, while also gathering feedback from older biathletes about new body composition guidelines.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages16 Years to 20 Years
SexAll
SponsorOstfold University College Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Lillehammer, Inland and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06487260 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study examines the prevalence of mental health issues and symptoms of low energy availability (LEA) and relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) among young biathletes aged 16 to 18. It aims to determine the association of symptom severity with factors such as age, sex, and performance level. Additionally, the study will gather insights from biathletes aged 18 and older regarding their experiences with new body composition assessment guidelines. The findings are expected to enhance understanding of health symptoms in this population and inform best practices for safeguarding athlete well-being.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are competitive biathletes aged 16 to 18 who reside in Norway and can communicate in Norwegian.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently injured and unable to participate in regular training will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved mental health support and interventions for young biathletes, reducing the risk of eating disorders and enhancing overall athlete well-being.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on young biathletes, studies in other weight-sensitive sports have highlighted similar mental health challenges, suggesting that this study's approach is relevant and necessary.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* competetive biathlete
* live in Norway, speaks or understand written and oral Norwegian

Exclusion Criteria:

* injured and prevented from regular training (3 months leading up to recruitement)

Where this trial is running

Lillehammer, Inland and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Mental Health IssuePhysical Healthbiathlonbiathletesnordic skiingREDsLEAMental health
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.