Fuelling the future: Considerations for promoting engagement with evidence-based nutrition content on social media among young dancers and the dance community

The increasing accessibility of social media has amplified unrealistic standards within the dance industry, influencing young dancers’ perceptions of nutrition and health. The Wellbeing for Dancers project, is an online educational resource developed using a co-design approach with dancers, teachers and other members of the Australian dance community. The website includes specific wellbeing information, including nutrition information targeted to pre-professional dancers, teachers and parents, with the aim of promoting health literacy awareness of low energy availability. This study is an extension of the Wellbeing for Dancers project, and investigates how young dancers, as well as teachers and parents, engage with evidence-based nutrition content on social media, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific research and future practical application. Qualitative research was conducted through focus groups and interviews with members of the Australian dance community (four dancers aged 19 to 21, one teacher, and one parent) to understand preferences and factors influencing engagement with social media. Key themes related to promoting engagement with nutrition content on social media included the importance of credible and trustworthy sources, delivery methods, relevance and relatability to the specific target audience, tone and language and dance-specific nutrition information. Through the guidance of effective behaviour theories such as Social Cognitive Theory and Self-Determination Theory, findings from this study could inform future phases of research and assist nutrition content creators in developing engaging, digestible and evidence-based nutrition information for dancers, parents and teachers. By addressing misinformation and fostering health literacy, this study contributes to the ongoing Wellbeing for Dancers project, creating accessible, engaging nutrition education that supports the development of critical appraisal skills in young dancers, in making informed, sustainable choices.