The Use of a Consumer-Grade Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Device for Weight Certification in Collegiate Wrestling: Implications for Minimal Wrestling Weight Determination

Abstract Twohey, E, Dobbs, WC, Malone, CM, Fields, JB, Jones, MT, and Jagim, AR. The use of a consumer-grade bioelectrical impedance analysis device for weight certification in collegiate wrestling: Implications for minimal wrestling weight determination. J Strength Cond Res 39(12): 1321–1326, 2025—Wrestlers are required to complete a preseason weight certification assessment, which includes a weigh-in, a hydration test, and a body fat percentage (BF%) measurement. This information is then used to establish their minimal wrestling weight (MWW) and minimal weight class. Skinfold (SKF) is the primary method used for determining body fat for collegiate wrestling, yet impedance devices are being considered for use in the future. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in body fat and the resulting MWW values derived from SKF and a consumer-grade multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (MFBIA) device. Thirty-one collegiate male wrestlers produced a urine sample for urine specific gravity assessment to ensure adequate hydration status. Subjects then completed a weigh-in, followed by 2 body composition assessments using a (a) MFBIA device and (b) skinfold calipers to determine body density and BF%. No significant differences were observed for estimates of BF% (SKF: 13.4 ± 2.8% vs. MFBIA: 14.0 ± 3.3%; p = 0.198) or computed MWW values (SKF: 69.8 ± 8.7 kg vs. MFBIA: 69.4 ± 9.7 kg; p = 0.348) between devices. When determining the minimal weight class for each device, there were discrepancies in 11 of the 31 wrestlers (35%). Although the current MFBIA device can provide an acceptable estimate of BF% and similar resulting MWW value at the group level, the methods cannot be used interchangeably.