Residual Athletic Identity, Body Image, and Emotional Symptoms in Retired Rhythmic Gymnasts: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Background. Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport characterized by high physical and aesthetic demands and typically early competitive retirement. In this context, athletic identity and body image play a central role during the athletic career and may be compromised after retirement, particularly in aesthetic disciplines. However, the relationship between these constructs in retired rhythmic gymnasts has been scarcely investigated.

Objective. To analyze the relationship between athletic identity and body image in retired rhythmic gymnasts, in order to better understand the psychosocial factors influencing post-retirement adaptation.

Methods. An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study will be conducted using a self-administered online survey targeting retired rhythmic gymnasts aged ≥18 years. The primary study variables will be positive body image and residual athletic identity. Additional independent and predictive variables will include sociodemographic characteristics and sport career-related factors (age, age at initiation in rhythmic gymnastics, duration of the athletic career, highest competitive level achieved, and satisfaction with the athletic career). A set of potential confounding or moderating variables will also be considered (time since retirement and type of sport retirement). Statistical analyses will include descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and multiple linear regression models adjusted for potential confounders.

Expected results. An association between residual athletic identity and body image after sport retirement is expected, moderated by time since retirement and type of retirement, with implications for identifying profiles of greater vulnerability and informing the design of preventive interventions.