Weight Loss Practices Of Collegiate Wrestlers - Have Things Changed?

PURPOSE: To examine the weight management behaviors of collegiate wrestlers and compare to a similar population surveyed shortly after the implementation of the NCAA Wrestling Weight Certification Program (WWCP) in 1998. METHODS: After the completion of the 2023-24 competitive season, 29 members of an NCAA Division III collegiate men’s wrestling team completed a weight loss strategy survey that has previously been used to examine weight management practices in collegiate wrestlers. The survey was administered through a digital platform and descriptive statistics were generated using software. RESULTS: Of the 29 responses, two represented the heavyweight and were excluded from the analysis. Therefore, 27 individual responses were analyzed. Wrestlers most frequently began cutting weight at the age of 14. Coaches and fellow wrestlers were the primary influence on weight loss practices, while the majority reported that their dietitian/nutritionist or physician had little to no influence. The largest magnitude of weight loss was 6.2 kg ± 1.9 kg. The average weight fluctuation per week was 3.4 kg ± 1.4 kg (4.8% ± 1.9% of body weight). Lightweights (125-141 lb) fluctuated 6.2% while middleweights (149-165 lb) and heavier weights (174-197 lb) fluctuated 4.5% and 3.8%, respectively. Increased exercise (83%), fluid restriction (72%), and fasting (66%) were the primary methods of weight loss. In addition, 31% reported utilizing a sauna at least 3-4 times during the season while only 7% used a rubber/plastic suit. Medications and vomiting were not utilized. Financial restrictions and lack of time were most often reported as the biggest barrier to healthy dietary habits. CONCLUSIONS: There was an average body weight fluctuation of 4.8% per week, with a tendency towards higher percentages of weight loss in lighter weight categories. Coaches and fellow wrestlers remain the primary influence on weight loss practices. The use of rubber/plastic suits was lower than the previous 26.7% reported, suggesting more awareness of the deleterious effects. Weekly weight fluctuation to make weight remains common practice in wrestling to obtain their target weight. Future research should be aimed at interventions to address frequent rapid weight loss in wrestling to promote evidence-based and safe weight-reduction strategies.