Nutrition, Body Composition, and Performance: A Case Study of Two Collegiate Wrestlers

Introduction: This case-study examined changes in nutrient intake, body composition, and performance of two Division I wrestlers before and after competition season. Methods: Two male wrestlers were assessed during pre-season (PRE) and after the national championship tournament (POST). Body composition was determined via 7-site skinfolds to estimate body fat percent (BF%) and fat-free mass (FFM). Nutrient intake was analyzed from 3-day food recalls. A Biodex dynamometer assessed isometric strength. A stationary cycle ergometer was used to assess anaerobic time to exhaustion (TTE). Results: Both wrestlers’ body mass and BF% increased at POST, while Participant 2’s FFM decreased 0.9kg. Participant 2 met 44% and 67% of energy recommendations PRE and POST, respectively. Carbohydrate intake was approximately at 33% and 57% recommendations PRE and POST, while protein intake was at 75% of estimated needs. Participant 1 maintained performance from PRE to POST, while Participant 2 experienced a -15.0 and -5.0 Nm·kg-1 decrease in extension and flexion strength, respectively. Conclusions: For these two athletes, under consuming energy and macronutrients seems to have a negative effect on muscle mass and strength performance, with less impact on anaerobic performance. These findings may provide insight for monitoring nutrition throughout the wrestling season to prevent decreases in strength and FFM.