The Importance of Weight Management in Sport
When discussing weight management in sport, it is important to discuss not only the physical importance of weight changes but also the mental effects they have on athletes. Weight loss is used in sport usually to qualify for a competitive weight category or to enhance performance. In order to lose body fat, the athlete needs to be expending more calories than are being consumed. This works best through a combination of diet and exercise as opposed to one or the other, and over a gradual period of time as opposed to through a quick crash diet. If we give the body time to adapt to the weight loss then there is a better chance that we will be able to maintain the weight loss, as opposed to if the weight loss is sudden, which can create secondary health issues.
Achieving a Healthy Body Weight for Sport
What is the best approach to manage weight and/or weight loss in these different groups?
Those who are already lean and want to be leaner, while retaining lean tissue.
Those who are overweight and need to lose body fat but also want to retain lean tissue.
Those who are young and still growing but need to learn how to manage their eating behaviors to match energy needs.
Minimizes health risks, including sport injuries, and promotes good health and eating habits, while allowing for optimal training and performance in a given sport.
Considers genetic makeup and family history of body weight and shape.
Accounts for age and level of physical development, including normal reproductive function in women.
Accepted by the individual and can be maintained without constant dieting or restraining food intake.
