Quantitative Study of Nutritional Knowledge and Awareness Among Badminton Players at Club Champion Gading Jaya

Abstract

Badminton is a high-intensity sport requiring physical endurance, speed, and rapid recovery, all of which are supported by proper nutrition. However, many athletes lack sufficient knowledge about their nutritional needs, which can negatively impact their performance. This study aims to evaluate the level of nutritional knowledge among badminton athletes at Club Champion Gading Jaya and to explore the relationship between this understanding and their performance. A quantitative descriptive research design was used, involving 22 athletes selected through total sampling. Data were collected using a validated multiple-choice questionnaire assessing knowledge of macronutrients, micronutrients, and dietary practices. Results show that only 13.6% of participants demonstrated a very good understanding of nutrition, while the majority were categorized as moderate or poor. Key deficiencies were observed in knowledge of micronutrients such as folic acid and iron, as well as balanced diet principles. Misconceptions, such as equating body weight with energy adequacy, were also prevalent. These findings highlight a critical gap in nutritional literacy among athletes. The study concludes that systematic, sport-specific nutrition education is urgently needed to improve dietary behaviors and enhance athlete performance. Targeted interventions by nutrition professionals are recommended as part of holistic athlete development strategies, not only to improve dietary behaviors but also to mitigate performance declines and health risks stemming from persistent nutritional misconceptions.