A latent profile analysis revealed different categories of patients in anorexia nervosa: proposal of guidelines in adapted physical activity

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is frequently associated with anxiety, depression, and problematic exercise (PE). These uncontrolled physical activities inducing resistance to the therapeutic protocols. Some recent studies demonstrated that adding controlled and adapted physical activities (APA) in the therapeutic protocol was more positive for AN patients than the usual physical activity suppression. The aim of the present study was to highlight different profiles of AN patients in order to better individually adapt the physical activity programs, and thus the therapeutic impact of the future APA programs. Problematic exercises, cardio-respiratory fitness, perceived fitness and mood were measured in fifty-two AN patients [all females, 17.15 (± 2.22) years old, BMI = 16.49(± 1.54)] from three different French therapeutic centers. Then, a latent profile analysis allowed to exhibit 3 classes corresponding to 3 different profiles of AN patients. A first patient profile was characterized by proven PE with lower anxiety and depression. A second profile exhibited a moderate PE coupled with a high level of anxiety and depression. The last profile revealed patients without any PE, and medium scores in the other variables. These results lead to propose different angles and objectives to design and improve future APA programs according to these patient profiles.