High prevalence and magnitude of rapid weight loss in mixed martial arts athletes.

The practice of rapid weight loss in mixed martial arts (MMA) is an increasing concern but data remains scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence, magnitude, methods and influencers of rapid weight loss in professional and amateur MMA athletes. MMA athletes (n=314; 287 men, 27 women) across nine weight categories (strawweight to heavyweight), completed a validated questionnaire adapted for this sport. Sex-specific data were analysed, and sub-group comparisons were made between athletes competing at professional and amateur levels. Most athletes purposefully reduced body weight for competition (men: 97.2%; women: 100%). The magnitude of rapid weight loss in one week prior to weigh-in was significantly greater for professional athletes compared to those competing at amateur level (men: 5.9% v 4.2%; women: 5.0% v 2.1% of body weight; p<0.05). In the 24 h preceding weigh-in, the magnitude of rapid weight loss was greater at professional than amateur level in men (3.7% v 2.5% of body weight; p