scholarly journals Self-reported methods of weight cutting in professional mixed-martial artists: how much are they losing and who is advising them?

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sungjun Park ◽  
Michelle Alencar ◽  
John Sassone ◽  
Leilani Madrigal ◽  
Alison Ede
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Combat Sports ◽  
Registered Dietitian ◽  
Study Report ◽  
Effective Manner ◽  
Rate Of Success

Abstract Background Similar to other combat sports, mixed martial arts (MMA) includes divisional weight classes. The purpose of our research was to further investigate the amount of weight professional MMA fighters lost prior to weighing in for competition, their methods used to cut weight, and their sources of advice on how to cut weight. Methods This survey was administered to 92 male professional MMA athletes. The survey questions included duration of overall weight loss prior to competition, methods of weight-cutting, and their sources of advice regarding weight cutting. Results When comparing the number of methods of weight cutting with the source of advice, those who received their advice from social media used slightly more methods of weight cutting (M = 4.86, SD = 1.27) than those who did not (M = 4.02, SD = 1.55); t(90) = − 2.53, p < .05. MMA athletes that used the help of a registered dietitian nutritionist also reported using the least amount of methods for weight-cutting than any other category (M = 3.84, SD = 1.67). Those that used teammates and did not use a registered dietitian nutritionist used slightly more methods (M = 4.46, SD = 1.41) than those who used a registered dietitian nutritionist. Conclusions The findings of this study report that professional MMA athletes do undergo rapid weight loss through various methods to make weight for competition. This study adds evidence to the literature that most professional MMA athletes undergo RWL for competition without the guidance of a registered dietitian nutritionist. It is unclear what the effect of using a registered dietitian nutritionist may have on an MMA athletes’ ability to reduce weight in a safe and effective manner. Future research should seek to investigate if employing a registered dietitian nutritionist may lead to a higher rate of success for MMA athletes to make weight, and help reduce adverse risks of RWL.

scholarly journals Martial arts pedagogies and practice: A report on the contributions to coaching knowledge

2017 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 101
Author(s):  
George Jennings
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Traditional Approach ◽  
The Body ◽  
Mental Toughness ◽  
Training Methods ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Combat Sports ◽  
Metropolitan University

The 4<sup>th</sup> International Coaching Conference held at Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK, showcased a range of studies concerning pedagogy in martial arts (MA). They varied in regards to their underpinning discipline, theory and method, but were united by a concern for enhancing practice in both pedagogy (the science) and pedagogies (the objects of study). One theoretical talk advocated a study of individual practices (techniques of the body and their corresponding methods) via praxiography in relation for a balanced, critical health pedagogy examining the duality of ‘dark’ and ‘light’ aspects. This in turn was applied by an emerging study looking at rapid weight loss practices in Judo and other combat sports that is beginning to scrutinise policies in order to regular this problem. Meanwhile, an investigation into the mental toughness of Karate practitioners uncovered similarly alarming findings on extreme training methods among veteran Welsh Karateka, while another study of a British context of Savate and Capoeira shared ways of studying MA pedagogies in their total form through traditional approach to ethnography. Together, these papers exemplify the increasing corpus of knowledge on teaching and learning in MA that could support that of coaching alongside sport and body pedagogy.

Rapid Weight Gain Following Weight Cutting in Male and Female Professional Mixed Martial Artists

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-9
Author(s):  
Kadhiresan R. Murugappan ◽  
Ariel Mueller ◽  
Daniel P. Walsh ◽  
Shahzad Shaefi ◽  
Akiva Leibowitz ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Gain ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Female Athletes ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Mixed Martial Arts ◽  
Rapid Weight Gain ◽  
Male And Female ◽  
Small Series

Rapid weight loss or “weight cutting” is a common but potentially harmful practice used in mixed martial arts competition. Following the official weigh-in, competitors refeed and rehydrate themselves in a process known as rapid weight gain (RWG) to realize a potential competitive advantage. While data from surveys and small series have indicated the majority of mixed martial arts athletes engage in rapid weight loss, there is a lack of officially collected data from sanctioning organizations describing its prevalence. The present investigation represents a summary of the data collected between December 2015 and January 2018 by the California State Athletic Commission. In total, 512 professional mixed martial artists (455 males and 57 females) were included. Of these, 503 (98%) athletes gained body mass between weigh-in and their bouts. Total RWG between weigh-in and competition was 5.5 ± 2.5 kg, corresponding to an 8.1% ± 3.6% body mass increase. Total RWG was 5.6 ± 2.5 kg (8.1% ± 3.6%) for males and 4.5 ± 2.3 kg (8.0% ± 3.8%) for females. More than one quarter of men and one third of women gained >10% body mass between weigh-in and competition. Athletes from leading international promotions gained more absolute, but not relative, body mass than those from regional promotions. Our findings indicate RWG is nearly ubiquitous in professional , with a similar prevalence in male and female athletes. Trends based on promotion suggest a larger magnitude of RWG in presumably more experienced and/or successful mixed martial artists from leading international promotions.

scholarly journals Prevalence, Magnitude and Methods of Rapid Weight Loss Reported by Male Mixed Martial Arts Athletes in Ireland

Sports ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (9) ◽  
pp. 206 ◽  
Author(s):  
John Connor ◽  
Brendan Egan
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Average Weight ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Mass Reduction ◽  
Mixed Martial Arts ◽  
Weight Category ◽  
Water Loading ◽  
Body Mass Reduction

Rapid weight loss (RWL) is frequently practiced in weight category sports, including Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). The aim of the present study was to describe self-reported methods of RWL in a sample of competitive MMA athletes comprising of both amateur and professional fighters. The previously-validated Rapid Weight Loss Questionnaire, with the addition of questions on water loading and hot salt baths, was completed anonymously online by athletes (n = 30; all male, n = 15/15 professional/amateur) from MMA clubs around Dublin, Ireland. All but one (97%) of the athletes surveyed lost weight in order to compete, with the average weight loss being 7.9% ± 3.1% of habitual body mass. The RWL score (mean ± SD) for this sample was 37.9 ± 9.6, and a tendency for higher [6.0 (95%CI; −1.1, 13.1) (p = 0.093; d = 0.64)] RWL scores for professional (40.8 ± 8.9) compared to amateur (34.8 ± 9.6) athletes was observed. Frequencies of “always” or “sometimes” were reported as 90% for water loading, 76% for hot salt baths and 55% for 24 h of fasting. Fellow fighters (41%) and coaches/mentors (38%) were “very influential” on RWL practices of these athletes, with doctors (67%), dietitians (41%), and physical trainers (37%) said to be “not influential”. RWL is highly prevalent in MMA across both amateur and professional athletes, and RWL scores are higher than other combat sports. Water loading and hot salt baths are amongst the most commonly used methods of RWL despite little research on these methods for body mass reduction or effects on performance in weight category sports.

scholarly journals Practices of Weight Regulation Among Elite Athletes in Combat Sports: A Matter of Mental Advantage?

2013 ◽  
Vol 48 (1) ◽  
pp. 99-108 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stefan Pettersson ◽  
Marianne Pipping Ekström ◽  
Christina M. Berg
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Regulation ◽  
Combat Sports ◽  
Combat Sport ◽  
Weight Category ◽  
National Team ◽  
Common Notion ◽  
Age Range

Context The combination of extensive weight loss and inadequate nutritional strategies used to lose weight rapidly for competition in weight-category sports may negatively affect athletic performance and health. Objective To explore the reasoning of elite combat-sport athletes about rapid weight loss and regaining of weight before competitions. Design Qualitative study. Setting With grounded theory as a theoretical framework, we employed a cross-examinational approach including interviews, observations, and Internet sources. Sports observations were obtained at competitions and statements by combat-sport athletes were collected on the Internet. Patients or Other Participants Participants in the interviews were 14 Swedish national team athletes (9 men, 5 women; age range, 18 to 36 years) in 3 Olympic combat sports (wrestling, judo, and taekwondo). Data Collection and Analysis Semistructured interviews with 14 athletes from the Swedish national teams in wrestling, judo, and taekwondo were conducted at a location of each participant's choice. The field observations were conducted at European competitions in these 3 sports. In addition, interviews and statements made by athletes in combat sports were collected on the Internet. Results Positive aspects of weight regulation other than gaining physical advantage emerged from the data during the analysis: sport identity, mental diversion, and mental advantage. Together and individually, these categories point toward the positive aspects of weight regulation experienced by the athletes. Practicing weight regulation mediates a self-image of being “a real athlete.” Weight regulation is also considered mentally important as a part of the precompetition preparation, serving as a coping strategy by creating a feeling of increased focus and commitment. Moreover, a mental advantage relative to one's opponents can be gained through the practice of weight regulation. Conclusions Weight regulation has mentally important functions extending beyond the common notion that combat-sport athletes reduce their weight merely to gain a physical edge over their opponents.

scholarly journals Can height categories replace weight categories in striking martial arts competitions? A pilot study

2015 ◽  
Vol 47 (1) ◽  
pp. 91-98 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gal Dubnov-Raz ◽  
Yael Mashiach-Arazi ◽  
Ariella Nouriel ◽  
Raanan Raz ◽  
Naama W. Constantini
Keyword(s):  
Disordered Eating ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Combat Sports ◽  
Weight Category ◽  
Disordered Eating Behaviors ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Current Weight ◽  
Karate Athletes

Abstract In most combat sports and martial arts, athletes compete within weight categories. Disordered eating behaviors and intentional pre-competition rapid weight loss are commonly seen in this population, attributed to weight categorization. We examined if height categories can be used as an alternative to weight categories for competition, in order to protect the health of athletes. Height and weight of 169 child and adolescent competitive karate athletes were measured. Participants were divided into eleven hypothetical weight categories of 5 kg increments, and eleven hypothetical height categories of 5 cm increments. We calculated the coefficient of variation of height and weight by each division method. We also calculated how many participants fit into corresponding categories of both height and weight, and how many would shift a category if divided by height. There was a high correlation between height and weight (r = 0.91, p<0.001). The mean range of heights seen within current weight categories was reduced by 83% when participants were divided by height. When allocating athletes by height categories, 74% of athletes would shift up or down one weight category at most, compared with the current categorization method. We conclude that dividing young karate athletes by height categories significantly reduced the range of heights of competitors within the category. Such categorization would not cause athletes to compete against much heavier opponents in most cases. Using height categories as a means to reduce eating disorders in combat sports should be further examined.

scholarly journals Extreme Rapid Weight Loss and Rapid Weight Gain Observed in UK Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Preparing for Competition

2017 ◽  
Vol 27 (2) ◽  
pp. 122-129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joseph John Matthews ◽  
Ceri Nicholas
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Weight Gain ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Hydration Status ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Mixed Martial Arts ◽  
Rapid Weight Gain ◽  
Repeated Measures Design

There is a lack of research documenting the weight-making practices of mixed-martial-arts (MMA) competitors. The purpose of the investigation was to quantify the magnitude and identify the methods of rapid weight loss (RWL) and rapid weight gain (RWG) in MMA athletes preparing for competition. Seven athletes (mean ± SD, age 24.6 ± 3.5 yrs, body mass 69.9 ± 5.7 kg, competitive experience 3.1 ± 2.2 yrs) participated in a repeated-measures design. Measures of dietary intake, urinary hydration status, and body mass were recorded in the week preceding competition. Body mass decreased significantly (p < .0005) from baseline by 5.6 ± 1.4 kg (8 ± 1.8%). During the RWG period (32 ± 1 hr) body mass increased significantly (p < .001) by 7.4 ± 2.8 kg (11.7 ± 4.7%), exceeding RWL. Mean energy and carbohydrate intake were 3176 ± 482 kcal・day-1 and 471 ± 124 g・day-1, respectively. At the official weigh-in 57% of athletes were dehydrated (1033 ± 19 mOsmol・kg-1) and the remaining 43% were severely dehydrated (1267 ± 47 mOsmol・kg-1). Athletes reported using harmful dehydration-based RWL strategies, including sauna (43%) and training in plastic suits (43%). Results demonstrated RWG greater than RWL, this is a novel finding and may be attributable to the 32 hr duration from weigh-in till competition. The observed magnitude of RWL and strategies used are comparable to those which have previously resulted in fatalities. Rule changes which make RWL impractical should be implemented with immediate effect to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of competitors.

Rapid Weight Loss Elicits Harmful Biochemical and Hormonal Responses in Mixed Martial Arts Athletes

2015 ◽  
Vol 25 (5) ◽  
pp. 480-486 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victor Silveira Coswig ◽  
David Hideyoshi Fukuda ◽  
Fabrício Boscolo Del Vecchio
Keyword(s):  
Weight Loss ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Mixed Martial Arts ◽  
Training Experience ◽  
Hormonal Responses ◽  
Before And After ◽  
Post Hoc

The purpose of this study was to compare biochemical and hormonal responses between mixed martial arts (MMA) competitors with minimal prefight weight loss and those undergoing rapid weight loss (RWL). Blood samples were taken from 17 MMA athletes (Mean± SD; age: 27.4 ±5.3yr; body mass: 76.2 ± 12.4kg; height: 1.71 ± 0.05m and training experience: 39.4 ± 25 months) before and after each match, according to the official events rules. The no rapid weight loss (NWL, n = 12) group weighed in on the day of the event (~30 min prior fight) and athletes declared not having used RWL strategies, while the RWL group (n = 5) weighed in 24 hr before the event and the athletes claimed to have lost 7.4 ± 1.1kg, approximately 10% of their body mass in the week preceding the event. Results showed significant (p < .05) increases following fights, regardless of group, in lactate, glucose, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatinine, and cortisol for all athletes. With regard to group differences, NWL had significantly (p < .05) greater creatinine levels (Mean± SD; pre to post) (NWL= 101.6 ± 15–142.3 ± 22.9μmol/L and RWL= 68.9 ± 10.6–79.5 ± 15.9μmol/L), while RWL had higher LDH (median [interquartile range]; pre to post) (NWL= 211.5[183–236] to 231[203–258]U/L and RWL= 390[370.5–443.5] to 488[463.5–540.5]U/L) and AST (NWL= 30[22–37] to 32[22–41]U/L and 39[32.5–76.5] to 72[38.5–112.5] U/L) values (NWL versus RWL, p < .05). Post hoc analysis showed that AST significantly increased in only the RWL group, while creatinine increased in only the NWL group. The practice of rapid weight loss showed a negative impact on energy availability and increased both muscle damage markers and catabolic expression in MMA fighters.

scholarly journals The challenge before the fight: a discussion on rapid weight loss in UFC Athletes (El desafío antes de la pelea: una discusión sobre la pérdida de peso rápida en los atletas de UFC)

Retos ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 44 ◽  
pp. 595-604
Author(s):  
Riqueldi Straub Lise ◽  
Mayara Torres Ordonhes ◽  
André Mendes Capraro ◽  
Fernando Renato Cavichiolli
Keyword(s):  
At Risk ◽  
Weight Loss ◽  
Martial Arts ◽  
Code Of Conduct ◽  
Rapid Weight Loss ◽  
Television Programs ◽  
Documentary Sources ◽  
The North ◽  
Ultimate Fighting Championship ◽  
The Media

  This study analyzed some cases of rapid weight loss procedures in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and athletes linked to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), currently the largest promoter of the sport. Therefore, printed sources were used, such as specialized magazines or not; documentaries, television programs, interviews, articles on websites; documentary sources, regulations and protocols. It was noted that the rapid weight loss represents overconformity deviances, which are part of a code of conduct valued by athletes, but sometimes become problematic. The cases listed here obtained relative repercussions in the media and resulted in acute damage to the athletes, financial and marketing damage to the event promoter. There was also a certain malpractice among athletes and teams, event organizers, and the North-American Athletic Commissions to try to prevent extreme procedures for rapid weight loss from occurring more often by putting athletes at risk, causing damage to the event itself. Resumen: El presente estudio analizó algunos casos de procedimientos de pérdida de peso rápida en atletas de Artes Marciales Mixtas (MMA) vinculados al Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), actualmente el principal impulsor de este deporte. Por tanto, se utilizaron fuentes impresas, como revistas especializadas o no; documentales, programas de televisión, entrevistas, artículos en sitios web; fuentes documentales, normativas y protocolos. Se observó que la pérdida rápida de peso se configura como una desviación supraconformativa que forma parte de un código de conducta valorado por los deportistas, pero que en ocasiones se vuelve problemático. Los casos aquí enumerados obtuvieron relativa repercusión mediática y resultaron en daños agudos y crónicos a la integridad física de los atletas, pérdidas económicas y de mercado para el promotor de los eventos. Se observó que existía un cierto descuido entre los atletas y equipos, organizadores de eventos y comisiones atléticas norteamericanas para tratar de evitar que los procedimientos extremos para la pérdida rápida de peso ocurran con mayor frecuencia, poniendo en riesgo a los atletas y causando daños al evento en sí.

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