Abstract

Weight-class athletes commonly engage in rapid weight loss (RWL) practices. Investigate attributed RWL perceptions and thoughts of UK-based Olympic weightlifters. Participants (n: 39, male: 22, female: 17) were selected from International Weightlifting Federation populations, 85% had previously acutely reduced pre-competition body mass. The 'Pre-competition weight management practices questionnaire' featured open-ended questions concerning feelings, mood and thoughts during RWL. Qualitative responses were subsequently analysed using content analysis principles. Negative thoughts and perceptions were commonly attributed concerning RWL, of which codes: irritation, hunger, fatigue, anxiety and low mood accounted for 72% of the 72 data extracts. Females more frequently attributed codes of anxiety, hunger and low mood. The prevalence of negative thoughts and perceptions of RWL accord to previous reports within strength-sport athletes. Olympic weightlifting athletes and coaches should contemplate if negative feelings/mood perceived during RWL are a tolerable factor within pre-event preparation to compete in a desired weight class.

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