Rapid Weight Loss Is Highly Prevalent Among Young Judo Competitors

Abstract

Several studies have shown that rapid weight loss is highly prevalent among wrestlers and judo competitors. There are many health problems that might be caused by acute and chronic weight loss. Studies suggest that the earlier an athlete start cutting weight, the more aggressive his/her weight loss strategies, which may be directly related to health problems. The prevalence of rapid weight loss among young judo competitors, however, is still unknown. PURPOSE:to assess the prevalence and methods of rapid weight loss among young judo competitors. METHODS:a convenience sample of 356 (262 boys and 94 girls; age: 15+2 years) young athletes aged between 12 and 17 years took part in the study. They were asked to answer a self-reported questionnaire specific designed and validated to evaluate rapid weight loss in judo. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS:eighty four percent of athletes have already lost weight rapidly at least once in their life in order to make weight and only 16% have never cut weight. Seventy percent of athletes were currently engaged in rapid weight loss procedures. The maximum weight lost were 5+3.5% of body weight whereas the usual weight loss is of 2.2+2.1% of body weight. Almost 50% of athletes cut weight more than 5 times per season. The vast majority reduces weight in less than 7 days and started such procedures younger than 14 years of age. Figure 1 depicts the frequency data obtained in this survey. CONCLUSIONS:rapid weight loss is highly prevalent in young judo competitors. They reduce significant amount of weight in a very short time period, which may place them at a high risk for health problems. Programs discouraging young athletes for making weight are urgently needed.Figure