Safe Weight Loss Practices in Sports

National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Safe Weight Loss and Maintenance Practices in Sport and Exercise

• The statement provides recommendations for safe weight loss and maintenance practices for athletes and active individuals.
• Unsafe weight management practices can compromise athletic performance and negatively affect health. These practices include skipping meals, limiting calories or nutrients, and engaging in undesirable behaviors to control body weight.
• Athletes and active individuals may be pressured by coaches, peers, or parents to achieve specific body composition.
• Recommendations for safe weight loss are based on current scientific evidence.
• Scientifically appropriate methods for assessing body composition are essential.
• Goal weights and body composition should be individualized, based on the athlete's needs, and determined by appropriately trained personnel like athletic trainers, registered dietitians, or physicians.
• The recommendation emphasizes the importance of considering both diet and exercise in weight management protocols.
• Total caloric intake should be determined by calculating the basal metabolic rate (BMR) and factoring in activity-specific energy requirements which should be consistent throughout the year.
• Safe and appropriate forms of exercise are important for weight loss.
• Weight management should occur gradually, without excessive restrictions or unsafe behaviors.
• Education regarding safe dietary and weight management practices should be communicated regularly to athletes.
• The position statement cautions against the use of ergogenic aids or dietary supplements without professional guidance. Professional consultation, such as from an athletic trainer, registered dietitian, or another qualified healthcare provider, is essential.

Assessing Body Composition and Weight

• Body composition assessments are crucial for determining safe weight and body composition goals.
• Body composition data should be treated as confidential medical information.
• Assessors should be trained and use valid and reliable techniques (e.g., skinfold measurements, hydrostatic weighing, and air displacement plethysmography).
• Body weight should be measured in a hydrated state.

Determining Goal Weight

• Goal weight should be determined relative to body composition.
• Regular assessments (at least twice annually) are recommended.
• Hydrating conditions should be considered when determining goal weights.

Weight Management in Weight-Class Sports

• Safe methods exist for achieving and maintaining goal weight and body composition.
• Many sports have weight categories but few mandated weight management protocols exist.
• Wrestling and sprint football are examples of sports that have specific weight and body composition guidelines, emphasizing safety.
• Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise plan is a primary focus for weight management.

Body Composition and Dietary Intake

• Caloric and nutrient intake should be appropriate for lean body mass, desired body composition, and activity level.
• Dietary intake should provide sufficient energy and essential nutrients required by the athlete.
• Caloric intake needs to be evaluated and altered accordingly.
• The athlete's body composition, activity level, and personal goals should be considered when determining caloric needs.