When Wrestlers Slim to Win

In brief

High school wrestlers often select a weight class below their normal weight without considering how much weight they can safely lose. Body composition assessments provide objective estimates of minimum weight for competition. However, even if athletes follow medically accepted guidelines for minimum weight, losing weight may still affect their health and performance. Using a variety of techniques, primary care physicians can determine and interpret minimum weight estimates for young wrestlers and offer advice on safe weight loss.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Craig A. Horswill

Dr Horswill is a research scientist in the Division of Nutrition, Children's Hospital, and clinical assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, both in Columbus. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the North America