Weight loss in many sports particularly in weight category sports is very important, since it can play a major role in the success of athletes. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of rapid and gradual weight loss protocols on body composition, aerobic capacity, and anaerobic power in trained wrestlers. Methods: 22 trained wrestlers (mean age: 20 to 25 y) volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned into two rapid (group 1) and gradual (group 2) groups. Participants in group 1 lost their weight during 48 hours using traditional methods, while subjects in group 2 did it according to a well-designed diet over a span of 12 days. All subjects were asked to reduce approximately 4% of their body weight. Prior and after the weight loss interventions, body composition, aerobic capacity, and anaerobic power were measured via Bruce and Wingate tests. Results: Results showed that rapid weight loss caused to a significant reduction in aerobic capacity, and anaerobic power (p<0.05), while there was no significant reduction in body fat percentage. Significant reduction in body fat percentage and anaerobic power were observed in the gradual weight loss group (p<0.05); however, there was not any significant reduction in aerobic capacity. Discussion - Conclusions: In comparison of these two weight loss protocols, gradual weight loss leads to a lesser decrease in wrestlers` fitness and performance compared to the rapid methods.
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