Registered dietitians' knowledge, frequency of counseling, and opinions regarding basic fitness principles and physical activity in dietetics

This study examined registered dietitians' knowledge of basic fitness principles and physical activity recommendations, frequency of counseling, and opinions regarding physical activity education. A researcher-designed questionnaire was administered to a random sample of 300 outpatient clinical, community, and private practicing dietitians in New York State, resulting in a 32.7% response rate. RDs scored an average of 54.9% on the knowledge questions. More than half (53.1%) initiated physical activity questions during counseling yet 37.8% did not believe they had enough knowledge to answer their patients' or clients' questions about physical activity. Overwhelmingly, RDs (98.0%) agreed with the need and importance of training in the area of basic fitness principles, physical activity counseling, and related information in dietetics education to build a solid understanding of the role of physical activity and exercise in relation to diet.