Interpretive Summary

Birgit Friedmann-Bette, et al. "Rapid Weight Loss And The Body Fluid Balance And Hemoglobin Mass Of Elite Amateur Boxers." Journal Of Athletic Training 48.1 (2013): 109-117. SPORTDiscus. Web. 19 Sept. 2013

In this scholarly source the journal of athletic training in January and February, sought to research effects of cutting to lower weight classes on the body, and how dehydration plays a key factor. They looked at amateur-elite boxers in a case-study environment. There were 17 boxers in total, between ages 17 and 22, between 55kg and 74kg. There were two groups, the weight loss group, and the control group. The weight loss group used methods of dehydration, starvation, and intense exercise and sweating to lose weight. The control group underwent their normal training and pre-competition routines. Tests were run to see blood level, water level in the body, water level in the cells, and plasma volume in each individual. In the case with the control group, all tests provided the same results from first test to second, however with weight loss group, losing 4-7% of their body mass lead to led to decreases in total body water 5.1-6.9%, extracellular water 5.4-18%, blood volume 5.5-9.7%, and plasma volume 5-13%. The author proved what their set out looking for, which was to show that a losing 5-6% of your body mass with a short period of time, may lead to severe dehydration.

This article is of relevance to my research because it shows a case-study which is most like the only example to provide information on athletes cutting weight and one aspect of side effects. The aspect that they are revealing is one of the negative physical effects cutting weight can impose on someone. Dehydration can lead to serious fatigue, drowsiness, and even death. This article is one of many I will search for that reveals the dangers cutting weight imposes on athletes, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.