Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Sports (Basel)
ISSN
2075-4663
Volume
7
Issue
5
PubMed ID
31117325
Publisher
MDPI
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences / Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research
RAS ID
29017
Abstract
In combat sports, athletes are divided into categories based on gender and body mass. Athletes attempt to compete against a lighter opponent by losing body mass prior to being weighed (i.e., 'weight-cutting'). The purpose of this narrative review was to explore the current body of literature on weight-cutting and outline gaps for further research. Methods of weight-loss include energy intake restriction, total body fluid reduction and pseudo extreme/abusive medical practice (e.g., diuretics). The influence of weight-cutting on performance is unclear, with studies suggesting a negative or no effect. However, larger weight-cuts (~5% of body mass inh) do impair repeat-effort performance. It is unclear if the benefit from competing against a smaller opponent outweighs the observed reduction in physical capacity. Many mechanisms have been proposed for the observed reductions in performance, ranging from reduced glycogen availability to increased perceptions of fatigue. Athletes undertaking weight-cutting may be able to utilise strategies around glycogen, total body water and electrolyte replenishment to prepare for competition. Despite substantial discussion on managing weight-cutting in combat sports, no clear solution has been offered. Given the prevalence of weight-cutting, it is important to develop a deeper understanding of such practices so appropriate advice can be given.
DOI
10.3390/sports7050123
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Comments
Barley O.R., Chapman D.W., & Abbiss C.R. (2019). The Current State of Weight-Cutting in Combat Sports. Sports. 7(5), 123. Available here.