{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Rapid weight loss among elite-level judo athletes: methods and nutrition in relation to competition performance.
{Author}: Štangar M;Štangar A;Shtyrba V;Cigić B;Benedik E;Štangar M;Štangar A;Shtyrba V;Cigić B;Benedik E;
{Journal}: J Int Soc Sports Nutr
{Volume}: 19
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: 2022
{Factor}: 4.948
{DOI}: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2099231
{Abstract}: <B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Rapid weight loss (RWL) followed by rapid weight gain (RWG) is a regular pre-competition routine in combat sports and weightlifting. With the prevalence of these sports exceeding 20% at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, there are limited data on RWL and RWG practices and their impact on well-being and competitive success in elite-level athletes.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>A total of 138 elite-level female and male judokas, 7.7% of the athletes ranked as top 150 on the International Judo Federation Senior World Ranking List (WRL), completed a survey on RWL, RWG, and the consequences of these practices.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>Our findings showed that 96% of the respondents practice RWL. The average reduced body mass percentage was 5.8 ± 2.3%. Respondents who used either of the dehydration methods - fluid restriction, sauna suit, and/or sauna/hot bath - to reduce weight were 88%, 85%, and 76%, respectively. Furthermore, 91% of the respondents reported reduced energy as a negative consequence of RWL and 21% experienced a collapse episode during the RWL period. Respondents ranked 1-20 on the WRL experienced fewer negative consequences of RWL and RWG (p = 0.002) and had more dietitian and/or medical doctor support (p = 0.040) than lower-ranked respondents. Those who started with RWL practices before the age of 16 (38%) were ranked lower on the WRL (p = 0.004) and reported more negative consequences of RWL and RWG (p = 0.014).<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>This study is the first to provide insight into the RWL practices of worldwide elite-level judokas and provides valuable information for the combat sports society, especially coaches. Proper weight management and optimal timed initiation of RWL practices in a judoka's career may contribute to success at the elite level.