TO INVESTIGATE WEIGHT ALTERATION METHODS IN WEIGHT CLASSIFICATION SPORTS

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Author
Spencer, Amy
Date
2014Type
Thesis
Publisher
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Objectives: This study investigated weight alteration methods in weight classification
sports. Differences between males and females as well as sports were also evaluated. It is
estimated that many athletes engage in extreme weight alteration techniques in an attempt
to make the weight and possibly gain an advantage over other naturally smaller
competitors. Research in weight attainment has typically focused on male’s intentions to
achieve weight, while studies on females have been directed towards aesthetic sports and
adjunctive eating practices. Furthermore, evidence comparing weight classification sports
is scarce.
Measures: Participants were 25 competing weight class athletes (6 females; mean ± s;
23.83 ± 1.77 years, weight 52-72kg; 19 males; mean ± s; 25.63 ± 1.32, weight 65-125kg)
for powerlifting, mixed martial arts (MMA) and Olympic weight lifting. The RWLQ (Artioli et
al., 2009) was adapted to be suitable for a variety of weight classification sports. The
variables tested were weight loss and weight gain amount and strategies and the effects
these had on performance. After tests of normality, a Kruskal- Wallis 1-way ANOVA was
applied to assess differences between sporting groups. Independent samples T-tests and
Mann-Whitney U tests were performed to compare differences between genders.
Results: It was shown that there were no significant differences between genders or
sporting groups on weight reduction and weight gain strategies (p<0.05). Athletes stated
that they believed that the dietary practices employed between weigh-in and competition
are vital in influencing performance by improving energy, alertness and replenishing their
body.
Conclusion: The severity of weight loss and weight gain alteration methods differs slightly
depending on the participation sport and the gender of the athletes. However, statistically
there are no significant differences in sample groups and weight alteration methods. This
may be due to the small and uneven sample size.
Description
DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (HONOURS)
SPORT AND EXERCISE SCIENCE
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