Amateur wrestling is a highly demanding sport, requiring hard work, skill and sacrifice. In addition to the athletic and technical requirements of the sport, wrestlers must also be able to manipulate their body weights to compete in the most advantageous weight class possible. "Making weight" is an accepted and widely practiced strategy of the sport.
History
Wrestling is generally agreed to be one of the oldest sports in human history. Contested at the ancient Olympics in 708 B.C., wrestling then was far more combative than the modern version practiced today. The first wrestling tournaments did not recognize separate weight classes, thus the largest and strongest athletes had a distinct advantage. Today's wrestling is a tightly regulated sport at all levels of competition. Strict weight classes are in effect to maintain fairness and avoid one-sided matches.
Benefits
By temporarily reducing their body weight for weigh-ins, the athletes can gain a significant advantage over the competition. A seasoned wrestler may lose up to 15 pounds for a weigh-in and gain most or all or it back by the time he competes. With the higher body weight, a wrestler who successfully makes weight should have a size and strength advantage over the competition.
Significance
Making weight is not only accepted, it's an important part of the culture of wrestling. Making weight is looked at by wrestlers as a normal part of contest preparation. Making weight is so important that an athlete who chooses not to make weight will not only fail to gain an advantage, he will compete at a significant disadvantage; the competition will most likely have reduced body weight for his own weigh-ins and will be heavier than the class limit.
Methods
Wrestlers lose body weight through various methods of dehydration. Water weight is relatively easy to lose, and then gain back in the short term. The two most common methods of dehydration are fluid restriction and sweating. Leading up to a competition, most wrestlers will drink less water, while at the same time use a combination of heat and activity to perspire. Many athletes will wear heavy sweat suits while pedaling on a stationary bike. Others will use a sauna to sweat out the last few pounds.
Warning
Making weight can be a dangerous endeavor, especially without proper precautions. Weight loss should always be moderated by a team doctor or coach. Abort making weight and get medical attention if you begin to experience light headedness, shortness of breath or extreme cramping. Do not attempt to lose more than 5 percent of your bodyweight.
References
- The International Wrestling Hall of Fame: History of Wrestling
- "The Grapplers Guide to Sports Nutrition"; John Berardi and Michael Fry; 2005
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