A Comparison between Two Weight Loss Methods in 20 to 25-Year-Old, Well-Trained Wrestlers

The aim of this research is to compare two weight loss methods in 20 to 25- year-old well-trained wrestlers. 30 well-trained wrestlers participated in this research voluntarily and then were randomly divided into two groups. Their percentage of body fat (measured with caliper) and strength and endurance of their upper and lower extremities were measured before and after the weight loss program. All subjects were required to lose 4% of their body weight, group A (recommended manner): gradual weight loss method according to a special diet for 12 days and group B: traditional method with a sever diet (limitation on water and sauna). Results showed that the endurance of upper and lower extremities and the strength of upper extremity decreased significantly and body fat percent and the strength of lower extremity did not change significantly in group B, but in group A despite a significant decrease in body fat percent, none of the mentioned variables changed significantly. In conclusion, we recommend wrestlers to use this gradual weight loss method to maintain the physiological parameters of their body, to lose weight without harmful side effects and to have a better performance.