Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance
Publisher
Human Kinetics
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
28711
Abstract
Context:
Combat sports are typically divided into weight classes, and body-mass manipulation to reach a weight class is commonplace. Previous research suggests that weight loss practices in mixed martial arts (MMA) may be more extreme than in other combat sports.
Purpose:
To investigate the magnitude of weight loss and the prevalence of weight loss strategies in different combat sports.
Methods:
Competitors (N = 637) from Brazilian jiu-jitsu, boxing, judo, MMA, Muay Thai/kickboxing, taekwondo, and wrestling completed an online questionnaire seeking information regarding their weight loss practices.
Results:
Body-mass manipulation was commonly undertaken by all combat-sport athletes, with a particularly high incidence of gradual dieting, increased exercise, and fluid restriction. Skipping meals was higher in taekwondo and wrestling (84%) compared with the other combat sports (∼58%), whereas training in heated rooms and forced oral fluid loss (spitting) was higher in wrestling (83% and 47%, respectively) compared with other combat sports (∼45% and ∼19%, respectively). MMA athletes reported the highest usage of sauna (76%) and water loading (67%) while also reporting the second-highest use of training in rubber/plastic suits (63%).
Conclusions:
Body-mass manipulation was present in all combat sports, with the prevalence and magnitude of acute weight loss greater in MMA. The incidence of and practices reported will help support staff be fully aware of the variety of methods these athletes and coaches may use to achieve weight loss. Additionally, the results could aid regulatory bodies in the further development of policies on weight cutting.
DOI
10.1123/ijspp.2017-0715
Comments
Barley, O. R., Chapman, D. W., & Abbiss, C. R. (2018). Weight loss strategies in combat sports and concerning habits in mixed martial arts. International journal of sports physiology and performance, 13(7), 933-939.
Accepted author manuscript version reprinted, by permission, from International journal of sports physiology and performance, 13(7). pp933-939. © Human Kinetics, Inc.
https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0715