Nutrition and the elite and highly trained junior and young adult tennis player: A scoping review

Abstract

Objectives: The primary objective of this scoping review was to examine existing evidence regarding the dietary intake and nutrition habits of elite and highly trained junior and young adult tennis players. Methods: Systematic searches of MEDLINE, EBSCOHost and Scopus were undertaken from the earliest record to December 2021. Reference lists of articles selected were manually searched. A five-stage protocol informed by Arkey and O’Malley's framework with consideration for the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology from scoping reviews was followed. Results: The initial searches yielded an initial 145 records following the removal of duplicates. Following the screening process 14 articles were accepted for analyses. Three major themes were identified: (1) dietary intake and negative energy balance, (2) sub-optimal nutrient intake/habits, and (3) the use and impact of dietary supplements/ergogenic aids. Conclusion: Research indicates sub-optimal nutritional practices amongst elite and highly trained junior and young adult tennis players. Particular concerns have emerged regarding insufficient calorie consumption to support performance, growth, and wellbeing.