Prevalence of Rapid Weight Loss and Its Effects on Elite Cadet Wrestlers Participated in the Final Stage of National Championships

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of rapid weight loss (RWL) and its effects on elite cadet wrestlers participated in the final stage of Iran national championships. Methods: The wrestlers comprised of 56 adolescents (25 freestyle and 31 Greco-Roman wrestlers). They were divided into three weight groups including light (50.80 ± 5.27 kg), middle (63.74 ± 4.94) and heavy weight (88.26 ± 10.51 kg). Their mean age were 16 ± 0.72; 16.82 ± 0.63 and 16.42 ± 0.69 years) respectively. Prevalence of RWL and its effects were assessed using the standard Oppliger questionnaire. In addition to the extracted data from questionnaire, wrestlers’ body weights were measured in the morning of competition day and its difference with the weight at the weigh-in time was calculated as a marker of their normal body weight. This index was applied for the first time in Iran and all the wrestlers participated in this part of investigation. Results: The maximum weight loss (MWL) among light, middle and heavy weight groups were 3.95 ± 1.31, 4.47 ± 1.53 and 5.07 ± 1.32 kg respectively. The results suggested that the rate of weight loss in light, middle and heavy weight groups were 3.09 ± 1.56, 2.64 ± 1.34 and 2.12 ± 1.41 kg respectively. The results indicated that increasing the level of physical activity in order to achieve ideal body weight besides the gradual dieting was the most prevalent method for weight loss, and dizziness, muscle cramp and irritability were respectively the most frequent side effects caused by RWL. Conclusions: Being aware of common ways used for weight loss among wrestlers can help coaches and athletes do the weight loss process more effectively.