Female Athlete Diaries

Podiums to PhDs- Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport with Penny Slater

Kirsty Sheehan Season 1 Episode 14

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0:00 | 53:16

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Navigating RED-S: Insights from Pro Triathlete and PhD Candidate Penny Slater

In this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan welcomes Penny Slater, an accomplished Australian Pro triathlete, coach, and PhD candidate. Penny shares her journey, including her switch from off-road to long-course triathlon and her struggles and recovery from Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome (RED-S). The discussion delves into the symptoms, diagnosis, and long-term effects of RED-S, as well as Penny’s academic research on the subject. Penny emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition, ongoing care from professionals, and the need for education and support for female athletes. Tune in to learn about the physiological and psychological impacts of RED-S and how Penny’s journey is contributing to better awareness and preventive education in the sports community.

00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries

00:24 Meet Penny Slater: Professional Triathlete

01:15 Penny's Battle with Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S)

02:12 Understanding RED-S: Causes and Diagnosis

03:05 Penny's Personal Journey and Challenges

07:19 Psychological and Physical Consequences of RED-S

10:53 The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Athletes

16:28 Penny's PhD Research on RED-S

28:22 Reflecting on a Career-Defining Year

28:42 The Importance of Fueling Performance

30:35 Running Performance and Body Composition

32:38 Future Education Initiatives

35:50 Addressing Energy Availability and RED-S

43:34 Advice for Young Female Athletes

50:13 Plans for the Future

53:04 Conclusion and Future Episodes

Insta: @pen_slater