Knowledge and Attitude Associated with Use of Performance Enhancing Substances and Methods among Mixed Martial Arts Athletes in Kenya

The use of performance-enhancing substances (PES) among Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes has been a growing concern in Kenya, driven by the desire to gain a competitive edge. This study explores the knowledge and attitudes associated with the use of PES, traditional herbs, and food supplements among Kenyan MMA athletes. The cross-sectional survey research design allowed for the collection of quantitative data to understand the athletes' perspectives. Participants in the study included MMA athletes from various regions across Kenya, with a target population of 4,000 athletes and a sample of 800 selected through Population Proportionate to Sample (PPS) technique. The research instruments used were questionnaires divided into two sections: Anti-Doping education and beliefs about PES, traditional herbs, and food supplements. Pre-testing ensured the reliability of the questionnaires. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 22, applying descriptive statistics and One and Two-Way Analysis of Variance to examine mean score differences at a 0.05 significance level. Results indicated that the majority of MMA athletes in Kenya are male (79.9%), with an age range of 18 to 54 years and a mean age of 26.8±4.1. Experience in years varied, with Wrestlers having the most years and Taekwondo athletes the least. Knowledge levels were generally low, with Bodybuilders scoring the lowest in a set of 16 Likert scale questions. Misconceptions about the safety of over-the-counter supplements were prevalent, with only 14.8% of athletes believing they were safe. Attitude scores showed that Bodybuilders and Weightlifters had a more favorable view of doping, while female athletes exhibited a significantly higher attitude score compared to males. The study concludes that there is a need for enhanced Anti-Doping education and awareness programs, particularly focusing on athletes with lower knowledge and attitude scores. Recommendations include implementing gender-specific education, promoting gender diversity in MMA, and strengthening collaboration with sports authorities and Anti-Doping agencies.