The Effect of Rapid Weight Loss on Physiological Functions in Wrestlers

Abstract

In brief: To assess the effects of rapid weight reduction, four university wrestlers decreased their body weight by 8% over a four-day period by food and liquid intake reductions. Significant decreases in muscle glycogen concentration and dynamic strength, but not aerobic or anaerobic capacity, accompanied weight loss. A three-hour rehydration period did not improve glycogen levels or strength performance. These results suggest that rapid weight reduction may impair wrestling performance.