Many drill team and cheerleader coaches insist on weigh-ins, and some call out each athlete's weight in front of the entire team. Discourage pathogenic weight techniques. Coaches need to define some healthy guidelines for athletes to follow. They must also devalue the use of pathogenic weight techniques and warn athletes of the consequences of such practices. Recognize individual differences.
Every individual is different and needs to be treated accordingly.
Genetic distinctions and individual limitations need to be considered. A health care professional experienced in working with eating disorders should assess the athlete to determine that she is at minimal risk for developing an eating disorder as a result of a weight loss plan. The athlete's weight should be higher than her recommended body weight. The athlete should agree with the decision to lose weight. A dietitian should be responsible for determining the target weight range, designing an eating plan, and monitoring the program.