Effects of rapid weight loss on physiological and performance outcomes in female judo athletes

This study investigated the effects of a five percent body weight reduction over seventy-two hours on the physiological and performance outcomes of female judo athletes. Fifteen female judo athletes, aged seventeen to twenty years, with at least five years of judo training experience, participated in a within-subject crossover design. The study assessed isometric handgrip strength, blood lactate concentration, heart rate recovery, rate of perceived exertion, and performance on the Special Judo Fitness Test before and after rapid weight loss. Participants reduced body weight using self-selected methods, such as increased physical activity and controlled dietary intake, while extreme methods like fluid deprivation were prohibited. Daily weigh-ins ensured compliance. Results revealed significant reductions in left-hand and right-hand grip strength, indicating impaired neuromuscular function. Heart rate recovery was significantly delayed, reflecting increased cardiovascular stress. The rate of perceived exertion increased, suggesting greater psychological strain during physical tasks. Performance on the Special Judo Fitness Test declined, particularly in the number of throws and overall test index, highlighting reduced judo-specific fitness. Blood lactate recovery showed no significant changes, suggesting minimal impact on metabolic recovery. These findings demonstrate that rapid weight loss compromises neuromuscular capacity, cardiovascular efficiency, and sport-specific performance in female judo athletes. The increased physiological and psychological stress underscores the need for safer weight management strategies. Coaches and athletes are encouraged to adopt gradual weight reduction approaches to preserve health and optimize performance. Future research should explore long-term effects of repeated rapid weight loss and evaluate nutritional and rehydration strategies to mitigate adverse outcomes.