AUSactive Launches Updated Eating Disorders Guidelines for Exercise Industry
AUSactive has launched updated eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry, providing practical, evidence-informed support for fitness professionals across Australia.
Developed in partnership with the InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, the third edition of Eating Disorders & Excessive Exercise: A Guide for the Exercise & Active Health Industry responds to growing demand for clearer guidance in this complex area.
With approximately 1.1 million Australians living with an eating disorder, these eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry aim to support safe, inclusive and professional practice.
Why Eating Disorders Guidelines for the Exercise Industry Matter
The updated eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry address a significant and growing health challenge. Since 2012, eating disorder prevalence has increased by 21 per cent across Australia.
As a result, exercise professionals are more likely to work with at-risk clients. Therefore, clear guidance is essential to ensure safe and appropriate support.
These guidelines help professionals to:
- Identify early warning signs
- Create inclusive and supportive environments
- Work within their scope of practice
- Refer clients appropriately
- Collaborate with health professionals
Key Recommendations from Eating Disorders Guidelines for the Exercise Industry
The eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry outline five key areas for best practice.
1. Support a Healthy and Inclusive Environment
Promote physical activity without reinforcing guilt, shame or weight stigma.
2. Recognise Warning Signs
Identify behavioural, physical and psychological indicators of disordered eating and excessive exercise.
3. Implement Referral Processes
Ensure clients are referred appropriately when risks fall outside scope of practice.
4. Address Dieting and Drug Misuse
Understand risks linked to extreme dieting, PIEDs and prescription medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists.
5. Support Recovery Through Collaboration
Work alongside medical, allied health and mental health professionals to support safe outcomes.
Addressing Emerging Risks in the Exercise Industry
Importantly, the updated eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry highlight emerging concerns around prescription weight-loss medications.
For example, GLP-1 receptor agonists may pose risks when used inappropriately, particularly for individuals at risk of disordered eating.
Strengthening Safe Practice in the Exercise Industry
AUSactive CEO Ken Griffin said the updated guidelines reinforce the industry’s responsibility to prioritise safety and wellbeing.
“Exercise is a powerful tool for physical and mental health. However, it must be delivered responsibly,” Mr Griffin said.
“These eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry provide professionals with the tools to recognise risk, respond appropriately and support client wellbeing.”
A Collaborative Resource for the Exercise Industry
Developed in partnership with the InsideOut Institute, the eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry complement:
- Professional education and training
- AUSactive Scope of Practice
- National Code of Practice
Professor Sarah Maguire OAM highlighted the complexity of exercise in eating disorder recovery.
Access the Eating Disorders Guidelines for the Exercise Industry
The updated eating disorders guidelines for the exercise industry are now available online.
👉 Read the full guide here:
https://ausactive.org.au/policies-guidelines/supporting-people-with-eating-disorders/
Learn More About Industry Guidelines
To explore more resources, visit our Policies and Guidelines page.
