Use of Athlete Supplements: A Case Study of Amateur Boxing Athletes in Indonesia

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the use of supplements among amateur boxers, including the types and brands of supplements and the ways and reasons for taking them. The sample is divided into three categories: elite, youth, and junior. The research method is a survey using a Google form which is distributed to all amateur boxers. The results showed that 200 amateur boxers used supplements, including 125 elite amateur boxers, 55 youth amateur boxers, and 20 junior amateur boxers. A total of 130 boxers received supplements from coaches, officials, administrators, and Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI). A total of 111 amateur boxers used only one type of supplement. The most widely used types of supplements are multivitamins and minerals. A total of 102 amateur boxers used supplements within 4-5 months before the competition. Amateur boxers can feel good effects after using supplements. However, counseling about sports nutrition by doctors and nutritionists needs to be done so that amateur boxers can choose the right supplements and be more careful in using these supplements. These findings can be a reference for coaches and athletes to determine the right supplements to regulate nutrition better.