ABSTRACT
Objectives: This research assessed the proportion of gym users in Ajman, UAE who consume nutritional supplements and factors associated with it
Materials and Methods: This research adopted a cross-sectional study design which focused on a population of gym users in Ajman, UAE who are 18 years or older. A total of 267 gym users participated in the research. Information required to achieve the objectives was collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire which covered domains such as socio-demographic characteristics, type of gym activities, and type of exercise performed, reasons for supplement use as well as sources of information about supplements. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done. Chi-square test was done to determine the associated factors
Results: This study was conducted among 267 gym users from four gyms in Ajman, UAE. The proportion of gym users that used nutritional supplements was found to be 39.7%. Common nutritional supplements used were protein powder [55 %], and energy supplements [35.8%]. Majority of the participants [253[96.6%]] reported that people use supplements for muscle building followed by 230 [87.8%] to boost their energy. Majority of the participants [177[68.1%]] received information from media/health magazines. Statistically significant association was observed between participants' level of education and use of nutritional supplement. There was no statistically significant association between age, gender, nationality and level of BMI, and the use of nutritional supplements
Conclusion: Of the 267 participants, around 40% were supplement users. Majority of the participants believe that nutritional supplements are used for muscle building, and the second highest proportion believes that they are energy boosting. Only level of education showed an association with use of nutritional supplement