Jockeys are at risk of eating disorders and feeling depressed when trying to slim down for races, researchers have said.
Fasting, excessive use of saunas and taking laxatives are all methods of keeping weight down, they said.
Experts at Brunel University in London decided to examine the link between low weight and mood among jockeys.
They looked at the psychological effects of rapid weight loss on a sample of 41 professional jockeys with an average age of 31. The riders were rated on their mood using an established score, which also looked at disordered attitudes towards eating.
The results showed jockeys were far more likely to feel depressed and have anxiety about food when they were trying to get to a minimum weight for races.
In contrast, when they were at their optimal or relaxed weights, with no forthcoming races, they were far more likely to report good mood, less anxiety, confusion and anger.
The study, published in the Journal of Sports Sciences, warned that fasting for races could put jockeys at risk of long-term mental health problems. Six (15%) of the jockeys were also deemed to be “at risk” of eating disorders.
Since 1979, the average weight of apprentice jockeys has increased by approximately 37%, but in that period the minimum weight for a flat race jockey has risen by only 6%, the study said.
As a consequence, jockeys are “compelled to employ increasingly extreme methods” to reach minimum riding weights.
In a typical flat race in Britain, rider and saddle together must weigh as little as 110lb, while the maximum weight allowed is 140lb, the study said. The minimum weight is 80lb below the average weight for an adult man while the upper limit is 50lb below this average weight.
Source: The Press Association
