In kickboxing categories are divided by weight divisions in all disciplines, except in Musical Forms. To attend in a lower weight class can give the kickboxer some advantages in terms of range and power to boxing and kicking techniques. However, some weight cutting strategies can impair kickboxers health, give them poor energy and a negative result in the competition.
It is important to consider whether weight reduction is the best winning strategy.
The important restitution comes hand in hand with high volume and high intensity training. For optimal restitution and training effect you need enough “fuel”. Weight reduction and low energy availability could interfere negatively with the ability to recover between exercises, concentrate and learn, gaining more strength. In addition, it may increase the risk of injuries, reducing your immune system defence so making you more prone to infections, impair bone health and may affect fertility in women. To train hard when your energy level is low may drain your motivation and it is not uncommon that elite athletes develop eating disorders because of too much focus on weight.
Weight loss should therefore be guided and tailored individually by professionals to take care of your health and to aim towards the highest performance level.
Dietary supplements exist in a great variety, but should be used with care. Every athlete is responsible to follow the International Antidoping Rules, as there have been several incidents of supplements containing illegal substances. If you need to use some extra supplements, ask your national team doctor or NADO if it is a recognized and safe product. It is also worth mentioning that a varied and healthy diet of ordinary foods usually provides you everything you need for high level performance.
Recommendations
- Choose a weight class close to, or within your normal weight range.
- Your age, health, performance level and body mass index should be evaluated before deciding to cut weight.
- Careful planning ahead when you decide to cut weight. Weight reduction should be done in the late off-season/early start of the season to reduce the need of large loss of fluids close the competition weigh-in.
- When losing weight by fluids (e.g. sweating, fluid restrictions) you need a clever plan to fill up storages of carbohydrates and electrolytes, not only water.
- Secure enough fuel for high intensity training sessions and for adequate recovery. Plan to eat more food and carbohydrates on the days with excessive training and less on the days with little or none.
- A great after-season weight gain is a sign of competing in a too low weight class and should be avoided.
- Female athletes should seek medical attention if they have irregular or stop in menstrual cycles.
- A gradual weight loss seems to have a less negative effect on performance than rapid weight loss.
- A combined strategy is recommended – make a gradual weight loss to stay close to your weight class before a competition, with the possibility of just a small reduction in weight in the days before weigh-in (less than 2-3% of your body weight).