From: lexfridman
Weight cutting is a widespread practice in combat sports, used by athletes to meet specific weight categories. It involves losing weight rapidly, often within days or even hours before a weigh-in, to compete in a lower weight class. This practice, while aimed at gaining a competitive edge, poses significant challenges and health risks to athletes.
Understanding Weight Cutting
Weight cutting primarily involves reducing water weight through dehydration. Athletes often employ techniques like saunas, hot baths, wearing sauna suits, and minimizing fluid intake to shed water weight quickly. For instance, Travis Stevens, a 2016 Olympic silver medalist in judo, described starting his weight cut only upon reaching the hotel before a competition, signaling a three-day period of intense focus on weight reduction [00:49:08].
The Psychology Behind Weight Cutting
The mental toughness required for weight cutting cannot be overstated. Stevens, for example, detailed how he had developed a mental strategy to cope with dehydration, drinking only minute amounts of water to trick his brain into feeling quenched [00:50:03]. He stressed the importance of accepting the harsh realities of the process and not allowing frustration over uncontrollable factors to affect one’s mindset [00:55:31].
Risks and Challenges
The risks associated with weight cutting are numerous. Dehydration can lead to severe health issues, including kidney damage and cardiovascular strain. It also affects cognitive function and physical performance, which are critical in combat sports. As Stevens noted, the toughest aspect of weight cutting is often not the cardio or technique but the poor mental state induced by a bad weight cut [00:40:27].
The Role of Coaches and Support Systems
A strong support system is crucial for athletes undergoing weight cuts. Coaches and mentors need to balance pushing athletes to their limits while ensuring they do not compromise their health. Stevens emphasized the importance of having a reliable team and the ability to pivot strategies when necessary [02:27:22].
Travis Stevens on Weight Cutting
“My weight cut would never start until I got to the hotel… instantaneously in my head there’s a plan to make weight” — Travis Stevens [00:52:14].
Conclusion
While weight cutting can provide a competitive advantage, it demands a significant toll on an athlete’s body and mind. Ensuring safety involves more than just physical preparation; it requires mental resilience and strategic planning. Combat sports organizations are increasingly scrutinizing weight cutting practices to ensure athlete safety and fairness in competition. As awareness grows, the future may see more regulated and safer methods to achieve competitive weight goals in combat sports.