Performance with a
Purpose
We are a student-led organization that promotes peer education towards the prevention and identification of wellness concerns in athletes: both in terms of physical and mental health. Through raising awareness and providing support to those in need, we aim to help prolong athletic careers and improve performances while fostering healthy relationships with food and exercise in our community.
What We Do
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- Present educational material on nutrition and mental health to local sports teams
- Members can write in a group blog, which is dedicated to sharing our experiences as athletes
- Discuss ways to improve inclusivity and compassion in our athletic community
- Help connect athletes in need of support with qualified professionals
- Encourage mental and physical self-care through intuitive eating habits, stress management, positive self-talk, etc.
Sure-footed
Adjective
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Confident and competent
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Unlikely to stumble or slip
We are​
Our Co-op leaders...
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Are well-informed, and use their voices & experiences to advocate for others
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Are passionate about athlete mental health and wellness
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Are unafraid to question how things can be improved, and are proactive bringers of change
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Want to make an impact that lasts
What is
RED-S?
Previously known as the Female Athlete Triad, Relative Energy Deficiencies in Sports (RED-S) can affect individuals of any sex or gender identity. This condition occurs when an athlete consistently under-consumes the calories needed to support their activity level, leading to adverse effects on performance, mental health, and physical well-being. In the context of RED-S, disordered eating habits include both intentional and unintentional caloric under-consumption.
​Physical Symptoms
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Bone density loss
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Body weight may be lower than what is considered healthy for that individual; however, RED-S is NOT always marked by weight loss
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Impaired hormone production, indicated by loss of menstrual cycle in females and low testosterone in males
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Cardiac abnormalities: bradycardia (low heart rate, usually below 60 BPM), orthostasis (abnormal increase in heart rate and/or blood pressure during positional changes)
Consequences
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Impairs recovery; “why am I always hurting?”
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Hypothermia/feeling cold all the time
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Decreased concentration, sometimes leading to poor academic performance
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Increased severity of depression and/or anxiety
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Poor endurance, sluggishness in practice
​Signs to Look Out For ​
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Struggles with poor body image, may frequently criticize their physique
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Preoccupation with food or exercise
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Constantly thinking about meal/exercise plans, checking restaurant menus before eating out, avoiding eating carbs or fats, etc.
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Low energy, appearing distanced or withdrawn
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Chronic pain or injury
