Prevalence and Magnitude Weight Loss Among Collegiate Wrestlers

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Wrestling Performance

Background:

• Collegiate wrestling involves weight classes, often leading to rapid weight loss strategies.
• Understanding the prevalence and magnitude of weight loss is crucial for athlete health and performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the percentage of collegiate wrestlers competing in their minimal weight class (MWC).
• To quantify the magnitude of weight loss among these athletes.
• To analyze the relationship between competing at MWC and initial body composition.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of data from the 2023-2024 collegiate wrestling season.
• Inclusion of 9,638 male wrestlers from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and National Collegiate Athletics Association.
• Skinfold assessments for weight certification and recording of lowest recorded weight class (LRW).

Main Results:

• 53.2% of wrestlers competed in their MWC, losing an average of 3.9 ± 2.5 kg.
• Wrestlers competing at MWC had significantly lower initial body fat percentages (12.7 ± 2.9%) compared to those who did not (17.5 ± 4.8%).
• Wrestlers were 8.1 ± 4.5 kg heavier at certification than their MWC, and LRW was 3.6 ± 2.9 kg below certification weight.

Conclusions:

• Just over half of male collegiate wrestlers compete at their MWC.
• Athletes achieving MWC have lower initial body fat, limiting safe weight reduction potential.
• Individualized weight management strategies considering body composition are essential for wrestler health.