Advanced search
Start date
Betweenand
Related content
(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Weight loss in combat sports: physiological, psychological and performance effects

Full text
Author(s):
Franchini, Emerson [1] ; Brito, Ciro Jose [2] ; Artioli, Guilherme Giannini [1, 3]
Total Authors: 3
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Phys Educ & Sport, Martial Arts & Combat Sports Res Grp, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] Univ Fed Sergipe, Ctr Res Sport Performance & Hlth NEDES, Sergipe - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Phys Educ & Sport, Lab Appl Nutr & Metab, Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 3
Document type: Review article
Source: JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF SPORTS NUTRITION; v. 9, DEC 13 2012.
Web of Science Citations: 112
Abstract

Background: The present article briefly reviews the weight loss processes in combat sports. We aimed to discuss the most relevant aspects of rapid weight loss (RWL) in combat sports. Methods: This review was performed in the databases MedLine, Lilacs, PubMed and SciELO, and organized into sub-topics: (1) prevalence, magnitude and procedures, (2) psychological, physiological and performance effects, (3) possible strategies to avoid decreased performance (4) organizational strategies to avoid such practices. Results: There was a high prevalence (50%) of RWL, regardless the specific combat discipline. Methods used are harmful to performance and health, such as laxatives, diuretics, use of plastic or rubber suits, and sauna. RWL affects physical and cognitive capacities, and may increase the risk of death. Conclusion: Recommendations during different training phases, educational and organizational approaches are presented to deal with or to avoid RWL. (AU)