Abstract
[Purpose]
Rapid weight loss is prevalent and potentially hazardous in combat sports; however, evidence among Mongolian athletes remains limited. This study characterized rapid weight loss practices among Mongolian judo athletes and compared behavioral practices and social influences between Limited-Method-Use and Combined-Method-Use profiles.
[Methods]
This cross-sectional study included 100 competitive Mongolian judo athletes. Of the 81 athletes who reported rapid weight loss, hierarchical cluster analysis classified 57 as Limited-Method-Use and 24 as Combined-Method-Use based on 12 weight-cutting modalities.
[Results]
Pre-competition rapid weight loss was reported by 81.0% of participants. Compared with the Limited-Method-Use group, the Combined-Method-Use group had greater body mass reduction (6.86% vs. 5.25%, p = 0.001) and post-competition body mass regain (6.62% vs. 5.04%, p = 0.001). The Combined-Method-Use group relied heavily on multifaceted dietary restrictions and thermal dehydration methods [sauna, fluid restriction, and plastic suit training (all p < 0.05)]. Regression analysis identified total body mass reduction percentage as the sole significant predictor of weight regain (β = 0.647, p < 0.001). Coaches and teammates were the primary social influences, whereas healthcare professionals had limited influence.
[Conclusion]
Rapid weight loss is deeply embedded as a normative practice within the Mongolian judo community, with many competitors adopting aggressive, dehydration-driven methodologies. The strong association between weight cuts and severe weight regain highlights the hazardous nature of these practices. These insights underscore the critical need for evidence-based sports nutrition education and preventative screenings targeting athletes and coaching staff.
Keywords: rapid weight loss, Mongolian judo athletes, weight cutting, dehydration, weight gain, sports nutrition education
INTRODUCTION
Rapid weight loss (RWL) refers to a rapid, short-term reduction in total body mass, typically achieved within 2-7 days before competition through severe caloric restriction, voluntary fluid deprivation, and active thermal dehydration. Although scholarly interest in weight cutting in combat sports expanded substantially during the 1970s [1], weight-making practices had been documented considerably earlier, including reports in combat athletes as early as 1930 [2,3]. RWL is highly prevalent in weight-classified sports, such as judo, wrestling, and boxing, with international studies reporting prevalence rates of 60-90% [4-9]. To gain a competitive advantage, athletes often intentionally reduce a substantial proportion of body mass, typically exceeding 5%, within a few days before competition through aggressive methods such as severe energy and fluid restriction, induced sweating, and increased training volume [10]. However, these practices are associated with severe adverse health consequences, including acute dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, impaired physical performance, and hormonal disturbances [7,11-13].
Evidence regarding the effects of RWL on athletic performance and physiological parameters remains equivocal. Some studies suggest that RWL compromises strength, endurance, and overall performance [14,15], whereas others indicate that performance may be preserved through proactive fluid and energy replenishment during the recovery period following official weigh-ins [16-18]. Current International Judo Federation regulations require athletes selected for a random weigh-in on the morning of competition to weigh no more than 5% above the official maximum limit for their weight category. This rule may influence post-weigh-in body mass regain strategies among judo athletes [19].
Despite growing international concern regarding the safety and ethics of RWL [20,21], empirical data on these practices among Mongolian judo athletes remain scarce. Mongolian athletes train within a distinct dietary and sociocultural context characterized by traditional diets rich in animal proteins and fats [22], long-standing perceptions of body mass and physical strength associated with traditional Mongolian wrestling (Bokh), in which weight categories are absent and greater body mass is traditionally associated with physical power, and variable access to specialized sports nutrition support compared with Western or East Asian cohorts. National dietary patterns in Mongolia are further shaped by long-standing food preferences and the limited seasonal availability of diverse food groups [23]. These factors may create contextual challenges for adherence to standardized sports nutrition guidelines. Rather than assuming distinct behavioral outcomes, understanding how these specific socio-cultural contexts potentially intersect with RWL practices and recovery strategies represents an important area of empirical inquiry. Studying Mongolian judo athletes therefore extends the global combat sports literature by describing weight-cutting practices within a previously underrepresented regional context. Establishing baseline evidence on RWL in this population may inform future health risk assessments, tailored sports nutrition education, and evidence-based interventions. Accordingly, this study aimed to (1) investigate the prevalence, frequency, magnitude, and methods of RWL among Mongolian judo athletes, and (2) compare RWL practices and sources of social influence between the Limited-Method-Use and Combined-Method-Use groups.
METHODS
Study Design and Participants
Data were collected between January and February 2026 during the competitive season using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. A non-probability convenience sampling strategy was employed to recruit 100 competitive judo athletes from the Mongolian national team and five prominent judo training facilities affiliated with the Mongolian Judo Association. Of the 100 participants, 81 (81%) reported engaging in RWL practices, based on the screening question, “Did you cut weight to compete last season?” (Figure 1); their data were subsequently utilized for detailed analysis of RWL behaviors and social influences. Head coaches and team administrators at designated national training sites in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, were contacted to facilitate recruitment. Potential participants present during the scheduled group training sessions were verbally briefed on the study objectives and invited to participate voluntarily.
Figure 1. Study flowchart of participant selection and analytical subgrouping.
Flow diagram showing recruitment of competitive judo athletes (n = 100), assessment using the Mongolian version of the Rapid Weight Loss Questionnaire (RWLQMGL), exclusion of non-RWL practitioners (n = 19), and the final analytical sample (n = 81) stratified into Limited-Method-Use (n = 57) and Combined-Method-Use (n = 24) RWL groups based on hierarchical cluster analysis.
The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) age ≥ 18 years; (2) a minimum of 3 years of judo training experience, consistent with previous RWL research in combat-sport athletes using the same minimum training duration [24]; (3) current participation in regular, structured training; and (4) participation in at least one official competition during the preceding 12 months. The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of Kunsan National University (IRB No. 1040117-202512-HR-034). Before data collection, all participants were informed of the study purpose and provided written informed consent.
Measurements and Instrumentation
Anthropometric measurements were obtained to assess body composition and basic physical characteristics. Body mass and body composition were measured using a bioelectrical impedance analyzer (InBody 970, InBody Co., Seoul, Korea) while participants wore light clothing and no shoes. Height was measured using a stadiometer to the nearest 0.1 cm. All measurements were performed by the lead investigators during morning sessions at the team training centers under standardized conditions.
In addition to anthropometric assessment, RWL behaviors, self-reported post-competition body mass regain, weight fluctuation history, and specific weight-loss methods were assessed using the Mongolian version of the Rapid Weight Loss Questionnaire (RWLQ), a validated instrument designed to assess the prevalence, frequency, magnitude, and methods of weight loss among weight-category athletes [25]. The RWLQ is widely utilized in combat sports, including judo and wrestling, and includes items on fluid and food restriction, sauna/sweat suit use, increased training load, and pharmacological methods (e.g., diuretics and laxatives). The Mongolian version was developed using standard forward-backward translation procedures. To assess linguistic clarity and conceptual equivalence, the translated instrument was reviewed by an expert panel consisting of 10 specialists (including sports scientists, nutritionists, and experienced coaches). The content validity of the translated questionnaire was robust, with scale-level content validity indices (S-CVI/Ave) of 0.96 for relevance and 0.98 for clarity, supported by significant agreement among the experts (Kendall’s W, p < 0.05). A pilot study involving 30 active combat athletes was conducted to assess comprehensibility and readability; these participants were excluded from the main analytical sample. The RWLQ-MGL yielded a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.61, indicating modest internal consistency. Accordingly, findings based on this instrument should be interpreted cautiously.
Statistical Analysis
All statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows (Version 26.0; IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD), and categorical variables were presented as frequencies (n) and percentages (%). Athletes were classified according to their RWL profiles using hierarchical cluster analysis with Ward’s linkage method and squared Euclidean distance applied to binary indicators (yes/no) of 12 RWL methods: food restriction, fluid restriction, sauna utilization, rubber/plastic suit training, room temperature manipulation, increased training volume, starvation, spitting, laxatives, diet pills, diuretics, and vomiting. Based on the rate of body mass loss, athletes losing ≥ 2.0% of body mass/day were classified as high risk because rapid weight loss has been consistently associated with dehydration, impaired physical performance, endocrine disturbances, and other adverse physiological outcomes [10,11,13].
Differences between the identified RWL groups were examined using independent-samples t tests for normally distributed continuous variables and Mann-Whitney U tests for non-normally distributed continuous variables (e.g., weight loss frequency). Categorical variables were compared using Pearson’s chi-square tests. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of post-competition weight regain percentage. The four predictors—body mass loss percentage, weight loss duration, sex, and weight loss group—were selected based on previous research examining RWL behaviors and post-competition weight dynamics in combat-sport athletes [1], as they represent key characteristics of the weight-loss process and individual athlete profile. These variables were entered into the model as independent variables. Unstandardized and standardized regression coefficients were reported. Before model interpretation, multicollinearity was assessed using variance inflation factors (VIFs) and tolerance values, with thresholds of VIF < 5.0 and tolerance > 0.10. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05; p values from 0.05 to 0.10 were considered suggestive without reaching statistical significance.
RESULTS
Participant Characteristics
The Limited-Method-Use (n = 57) and Combined-Method-Use (n = 24) groups did not differ significantly in age, height, body mass, sex distribution, training experience, age at RWL onset, or typical RWL duration (all p > 0.05; Table 1).
Table 1.
Baseline characteristics of participants by RWL pattern groups
| Variable | Total (n = 81) | Limited-method-use group (n = 57) | Combined-method-use group (n = 24) | p value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age (years) | 21.7 ± 3.8 | 21.3 ± 3.5 | 22.7 ± 4.3 | 0.136 |
| Height (cm) | 168.5 ± 7.6 | 168.0 ± 7.0 | 169.5 ± 8.8 | 0.421 |
| Body mass (kg) | 71.0 ± 12.4 | 71.0 ± 12.5 | 70.9 ± 12.6 | 0.986 |
| Male, n (%) | 46 (56.8) | 31 (54.4) | 15 (62.5) | 0.501 |
| Female, n (%) | 35 (43.2) | 26 (45.6) | 9 (37.5) | |
| Training experience (years) | 9.5 ± 3.7 | 9.2 ± 3.5 | 10.4 ± 4.2 | 0.189 |
| Age starting RWL (years) | 15.3 ± 2.8 | 15.0 ± 2.5 | 15.9 ± 3.2 | 0.165 |
| Typical RWL duration (days) | 5.0 ± 3.1 | 4.8 ± 2.8 | 5.8 ± 3.8 | 0.189 |
Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD) for continuous variables and frequency (percentage) for the categorical variable. RWL = rapid weight loss. Independent samples t-tests were used for continuous variables, and Chi-square (χ²) test was used for sex.
Rapid Weight Loss Characteristics
Weight loss frequency did not differ significantly between the groups (5.0 vs. 4.5 times/year, p = 0.504). However, the Combined-Method-Use group lost significantly more weight than the Limited-Method-Use group, both in absolute terms (4.75 vs. 3.68 kg, p = 0.008) and as a percentage of body mass (6.86% vs. 5.25%, p = 0.001). A significantly higher proportion of athletes in the Combined-Method-Use group reported losing ≥ 5% of their body mass compared with that in the Limited-Method-Use group (79.2% vs. 52.6%, p = 0.026). The proportion meeting the high-risk weight loss rate (≥ 2.0% body mass/day) did not differ significantly between groups (25.0% vs. 21.1%, p = 0.696). Post-competition weight regain was significantly greater in the Combined-Method-Use group than in the Limited-Method-Use group, both in absolute terms (4.71 vs. 3.54 kg, p = 0.005) and as a percentage of body mass (6.62% vs. 5.04%, p = 0.001; Table 2).
Table 2.
Prevalence, frequency, and magnitude of RWL practices by RWL groups
| Variable | Total (n = 81) | Limited-method-use group (n = 57) | Combined-method-use group (n = 24) | p value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight loss frequency (times/year), median (IQR) | 5.0 (3.0-6.0) | 5.0 (3.0-6.0) | 4.5 (2.0-5.8) | 0.504 |
| Magnitude of WL | ||||
| Typical WL (kg) | 4.0 ± 1.5 | 3.7 ± 1.3 | 4.8 ± 1.7 | 0.008 |
| Typical WL (%) | 5.7 ± 1.9 | 5.3 ± 1.7 | 6.9 ± 1.8 | 0.001 |
| <5% body mass | 32 (39.5) | 27 (47.4) | 5 (20.8) | 0.026 |
| ≥ 5% body mass | 49 (60.5) | 30 (52.6) | 19 (79.2) | |
| WL rate | ||||
| <2.0% BM/day | 63 (77.8) | 45 (78.9) | 18 (75.0) | 0.696 |
| ≥ 2.0% BM/day (high risk) | 18 (22.2) | 12 (21.1) | 6 (25.0) | |
| Post-competition weight regain | ||||
| Weight regain (kg) | 3.9 ± 1.5 | 3.5 ± 1.2 | 4.7 ± 1.7 | 0.005 |
| Weight regain (%) | 5.5 ± 1.9 | 5.0 ± 1.7 | 6.6 ± 2.0 | 0.001 |
Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD) or frequencies and percentages, n (%), as appropriate. High risk was defined as a weight loss rate of ≥ 2% body mass/day.
Sources of Social Influence
No significant between-group differences were observed in the reported influence of coach, teammate, family, internet, dietitian, doctor or medical staff, or other sports athletes (all p > 0.05) (Table 3).
Table 3.
Sources of influence on RWL practices by group
| Sources of influence | Uninfluential (1) n (%) | Moderately influential (2) n (%) | Highly influential (3) n (%) | Limited-method-use group (n = 57), n (%) | Combined-method-use group (n = 24), n (%) | p value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coach | 11 (13.6) | 6 (7.4) | 64 (79.0) | 44 (77.2) | 20 (83.3) | 0.743 |
| Teammate | 18 (22.2) | 10 (12.3) | 53 (65.4) | 39 (68.4) | 14 (58.3) | 0.605 |
| Family | 45 (55.6) | 10 (12.3) | 26 (32.1) | 16 (28.1) | 10 (41.7) | 0.460 |
| Internet | 62 (76.5) | 8 (9.9) | 11 (13.6) | 7 (12.3) | 4 (16.7) | 0.322 |
| Dietitian | 68 (84.0) | 4 (4.9) | 9 (11.1) | 6 (10.5) | 3 (12.5) | 0.622 |
| Doctor or medical staff | 77 (95.1) | 1 (1.2) | 3 (3.7) | 3 (5.3) | 0 (0.0) | 0.412 |
| Other sports athletes | 69 (85.2) | 6 (7.4) | 6 (7.4) | 4 (7.0) | 2 (8.3) | 0.955 |
Data are presented as frequencies and percentages, n (%). Response categories were collapsed from a 5-point Likert scale into three categories (1 = Uninfluential, 2 = Moderately influential, 3 = Highly influential). P values were calculated using Pearson’s Chi-square test. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Comparison of RWL Methods
The Combined-Method-Use group reported significantly higher prevalence of food restriction (87.5% vs. 61.4%, p = 0.001), fluid restriction (75.0% vs. 49.1%, p = 0.032), room temperature manipulation (70.8% vs. 32.1%, p = 0.001), sauna use (95.8% vs. 7.0%, p < 0.001), and training in rubber/plastic suits (79.2% vs. 36.8%, p = 0.001) than the Limited-Method-Use group (Table 4). No significant differences were observed in increased training volume, starvation, spitting, all-day plastic suit use, or laxative use (all p > 0.05). Self-induced vomiting was reported by one athlete in the Combined-Method-Use group; no participant in either group reported using diet pills or diuretics.
Table 4.
Comparison of current use of RWL methods between the limited-method-use and combined-method-use groups
| RWL methods | Limited-method-use group (n = 57) n (%) | Combined-method-use group (n = 24) n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Restricting food intake | 35 (61.4) | 21 (87.5) |
| Fluid restriction | 28 (49.1) | 18 (75.0) |
| Room temperature manipulation | 18 (32.1) | 17 (70.8) |
| Sauna use | 4 (7.0) | 23 (95.8) |
| Training in rubber/plastic suits | 21 (36.8) | 19 (79.2) |
| Increased training load | 27 (47.4) | 9 (37.5) |
| Starvation | 21 (36.8) | 6 (25.0) |
| Spitting | 13 (22.8) | 7 (29.2) |
| All day plastic suits | 1 (1.8) | 2 (8.3) |
| Laxatives | 2 (3.5) | 1 (4.2) |
| Vomiting | 0 (0.0) | 1 (4.2) |
| Diet pills | 0 (0.0) | 0 (0.0) |
| Diuretics | 0 (0.0) | 0 (0.0) |
Data are presented as n (%). RWL = rapid weight loss.
Multiple Linear Regression Predicting Post-Competition Weight Regain Percentage
Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of post-competition weight regain percentage. The overall model was statistically significant (F(4, 76) = 20.029, p < 0.001) and explained 51.3% of the variance in weight regain percentage (R² = 0.513; adjusted R² = 0.488). Body mass loss percentage was the only significant predictor of post-competition weight regain percentage (B = 0.646, β = 0.647, p < 0.001), indicating that greater percentage weight loss during the RWL period was associated with a greater percentage of post-competition weight regain. Weight loss duration, sex, and weight loss group were not significant predictors (all p > 0.05; Table 5). VIFs ranged from 1.02 to 1.42 and tolerance values from 0.70 to 0.98, indicating no problematic multicollinearity and no violation of the prespecified thresholds (VIF < 5.0; tolerance > 0.10).
Table 5.
Multiple linear regression predicting post-competition weight regain percentage
| Variable | B | SE | β | t | p value | Tolerance | VIF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Constant | 2.08 | 0.75 | — | 2.77 | 0.007 | - | - |
| Weight loss duration (days) | -0.06 | 0.06 | -0.09 | -1.05 | 0.298 | 0.80 | 1.25 |
| Sex | -0.54 | 0.31 | -0.14 | -1.77 | 0.081 | 0.98 | 1.02 |
| Weight loss group (Combined-Method-Use vs. Limited-Method-Use) | 0.64 | 0.35 | 0.16 | 1.81 | 0.074 | 0.87 | 1.15 |
| Weight loss percentage (%) | 0.65 | 0.10 | 0.65 | 6.79 | <0.001 | 0.70 | 1.42 |
Values are presented as unstandardized coefficients (B), standardized coefficients (β). Model statistics: R = 0.716, R² = 0.513, adjusted R² = 0.488, F(4, 76) = 20.029, p < 0.001.
DISCUSSION
This study provides one of the few comprehensive assessments of RWL practices among Mongolian judo athletes. A substantial majority of the sampled athletes reported pre-competition weight reduction, a prevalence comparable to the high rates reported in international cohorts across combat sports [4-9,24,26]. These findings indicate that RWL is common within the Mongolian judo community and occurs at a frequency similar to that reported elsewhere. The present study extends previous work by examining behavioral patterns rather than considering individual weightloss methods in isolation [1,5,8,9,27]. Classifying athletes into Limited-Method-Use and Combined-Method-Use profiles based on their reported methods provides a more integrated description of weight-cutting practices in this population.
Athletes predominantly reported traditional weight-loss strategies, including caloric restriction, fluid restriction, and increased training volume, consistent with previous studies [4,9,27]. Although these methods are commonly used for acute weight reduction [1], they may impose substantial physiological strain, including acute fluid imbalance, metabolic fatigue, and impaired athletic performance [13-15], alongside other adverse health effects [28,29]. The groups differed primarily in the extent to which multiple strategies were combined: the Combined-Method-Use group more frequently reported food restriction, fluid restriction, sauna use, room temperature manipulation, and training in rubber/plastic suits. By contrast, extreme or pharmacological methods, including laxatives, diet pills, diuretics, and self-induced vomiting, were rarely reported overall and did not differ significantly between groups.
Although these extreme behaviors were infrequent overall, their concentrated presence within the Combined-Method-Use group remains concerning because of potential adverse health effects, highlighting the need to address these practices at both the individual and broader sporting environment levels [20,30]. Crucially, from a psychopathological standpoint, even a single report of a purging behavior such as self-induced vomiting warrants clinical attention; such practices serve as critical subclinical triggers that can rapidly transition into clinical eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa or anorexia athletica, in weight-sensitive sports environments [31]. Furthermore, empirical evidence in combat sports indicates that reliance on these extreme, highly distressing compensatory methods significantly exacerbates cognitive anxiety, impairs self-esteem, and ultimately drives burnout, occasionally leading to premature withdrawal from the sport [32,33]. Therefore, the isolated case of vomiting should not diminish the urgency of preventative screening.
The cumulative magnitude of weight loss further illustrates the potential health risk associated with these practices, as the Combined-Method-Use group lost a significantly greater percentage of body mass than the Limited-Method-Use group. Across the total sample, a substantial proportion of athletes exceeded the 5% body mass threshold, which has been associated with increased health risk [11,12,15]. A notable proportion of Mongolian judo athletes met the high-risk daily weight loss threshold of ≥ 2% body mass/day. This pattern is concerning because current sports nutrition guidance recommends gradual weight reduction of no more than 1-1.5% of body mass per week [12,34]. A recent review similarly reported that RWL is highly prevalent among judo competitors, who commonly lose approximately 5% of body mass before competition, and highlighted the potential health risks of these practices. Although RWL may not necessarily impair sports performance when sufficient recovery time is available between weigh-in and competition, the absence of short-term performance impairment does not establish physiological safety [35].
Although the proportion of athletes meeting the highrisk daily weight loss threshold did not differ significantly between groups, the Combined-Method-Use group achieved a significantly greater overall weight cut and greater post-competition weight regain. This pattern suggests that the greater severity of the combined-method profile may reflect the cumulative magnitude of weight loss and the simultaneous use of multiple thermal and dietary stressors rather than the daily rate of weight loss alone [21,34]. The regression analysis supported this pattern, with body mass loss percentage emerging as the only significant predictor of post-competition weight regain. Greater weight loss was associated with greater subsequent regain, reinforcing concerns regarding cyclical weight fluctuation in combat sports. Previous recommendations for judo emphasize structured weight-management programs that establish appropriate minimum competitive weights, monitor body mass and hydration, and prevent excessive short-term weight reduction [36]. These approaches are particularly relevant to Mongolian judo, given the high prevalence and magnitude of RWL observed in this study, and support a shift from acute pre-competition weight cutting toward longer-term, supervised weight management.
The pronounced use of saunas, rubber/plastic suits, and room temperature manipulation in the Combined-Method-Use group suggests a predominance of dehydration-based strategies within this profile. Consequently, the greater weight loss and post-competition regain observed in this group likely reflect acute shifts in total body water rather than substantial changes in tissue mass. This interpretation is consistent with evidence that recovery after rapid weight loss involves intensive refueling and rehydration. However, complete restoration of body water and cellular glycogen stores may require more than 24-48 hours, indicating that rapid post-competition weight regain should not be equated with complete physiological recovery [9,16].
These behavioral patterns may be influenced by the social environment of training. Coaches and teammates were the primary reported sources of influence on RWL practices, whereas healthcare professionals had limited influence. This finding is consistent with qualitative research suggesting that weight regulation among combat-sport athletes may extend beyond pursuit of a physical advantage and become integrated into sporting identity, pre-competition preparation, and perceptions of discipline and psychological readiness37. Predominant reliance on non-professional and traditional mentorship is consistent with historical patterns in combat sports [9,27,33] and may facilitate the transmission of potentially harmful weight-cutting practices. Without evidence-based interventions, such practices may continue to be modeled by senior athletes and reinforced within coaching environments. These findings support structured educational initiatives targeting athletes and the coaches who help shape sport-specific norms [20,34,38,39]. Integrating qualified sports nutrition professionals into the training environment may help reconcile competitive weight management with long-term athlete health [9,12,20,39].
This study has several limitations. First, the cross-sectional design precludes causal inference regarding the observed relationships. Second, the reliance on self-administered questionnaires introduces potential recall and social desirability biases, particularly for sensitive or prohibited weight-loss methods. Third, participants were recruited from the national team and major clubs affiliated with the Mongolian Judo Association, resulting in a relatively homogeneous sample of highly trained competitors exposed to structured, high-intensity training environments. Consequently, the findings may not be generalizable to recreational judo athletes or combat-sport athletes in different sociocultural settings. Nevertheless, this homogeneity strengthens the internal validity of the findings for elite Mongolian judo. Future longitudinal studies should examine the long-term effects of cyclical RWL on body composition, athletic longevity, and health outcomes. Future research should further evaluate whether targeted nutrition education improves weight-management behaviors, nutritional literacy, and hydration practices among Mongolian judo athletes.
Footnotes
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors sincerely thank the Mongolian Judo Association and all athletes who voluntarily participated in this study. Their cooperation was essential to the completion of the research.
FUNDING
This research received no external funding.
ETHICAL APPROVAL
Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of Kunsan National University (IRB No. 1040117-202512-HR-034).
REFERENCES
- 1.Artioli GG, Gualano B, Franchini E, Scagliusi FB, Takesian M, Fuchs M, Lancha Junior AH. Prevalence, magnitude, and methods of rapid weight loss among judo competitors. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2010;42:436–42. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181ba8055. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 2.Kenney H. E. The Problem of Weight Making for Wrestling Meets. J Health Phys Educ. 1930;1:24–49. [Google Scholar]
- 3.Tipton CM, Tcheng T-K, Paul WD. Evaluation of the Hall method for determining minimal wrestling weights. J Iowa Med Soc. 1969;59:572–4. [Google Scholar]
- 4.Zhong Y, Song Y, Artioli GG, Gee TI, French DN, Zheng H, Lyu M, Li Y. The Practice of Weight Loss in Combat Sports Athletes: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2024;16:1050. doi: 10.3390/nu16071050. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 5.Malliaropoulos N, Rachid S, Korakakis V, Fraser SA, Bikos G, Maffulli N, Angioi M. Prevalence, techniques and knowledge of rapid weight loss amongst adult british judo athletes: a questionnaire based study. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J. 2018;7:459–66. doi: 10.11138/mltj/2017.7.3.459. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 6.Roklicer R, Rossi C, Bianco A, Stajer V, Ranisavljev M, Todorovic N, Manojlovic M, Gilic B, Trivic T, Drid P. Prevalence of rapid weight loss in Olympic style wrestlers. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2022;19:593–602. doi: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2119095. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 7.Barley OR, Chapman DW, Abbiss CR. The Current State of Weight-Cutting in Combat Sports-Weight-Cutting in Combat Sports. Sports (Basel) 2019;7:123. doi: 10.3390/sports7050123. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 8.Drid P, Figlioli F, Lakicevic N, Gentile A, Stajer V, Raskovic B, Vojvodic N, Roklicer R, Trivic T, Tabakov S, Eliseev S, Bianco A. Patterns of rapid weight loss in elite sambo athletes. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2021;13:39. doi: 10.1186/s13102-021-00267-3. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 9.Özbal AF, Ektirici A, Ceylan B. Weight loss magnitude, prevalence and methods among male and female Olympic-level judo athletes. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2025;17:385. doi: 10.1186/s13102-025-01478-8. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 10.Artioli GG, Saunders B, Iglesias RT, Franchini E. It is Time to Ban Rapid Weight Loss from Combat Sports. Sports Med. 2016;46:1579–84. doi: 10.1007/s40279-016-0541-x. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 11.Martínez-Aranda LM, Sanz-Matesanz M, Orozco-Durán G, González-Fernández FT, Rodríguez-García L, Guadalupe-Grau A. Effects of Different Rapid Weight Loss Strategies and Percentages on Performance-Related Parameters in Combat Sports: An Updated Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023;20:5158. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20065158. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 12.Lee HS. Effects of Rapid Weight Loss on the Immune System in Combat Sports Athletes: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2026;27:508. doi: 10.3390/ijms27010508. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 13.Ceylan B, Aydos L, Šimenko J. Effect of Rapid Weight Loss on Hydration Status and Performance in Elite Judo Athletes. Biology (Basel) 2022;11:500. doi: 10.3390/biology11040500. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 14.Fortes LS, Costa BDV, Paes PP, Cyrino ES, Vianna JM, Franchini E. Effect of rapid weight loss on physical performance in judo athletes: is rapid weight loss a help for judokas with weight problems? Int J Perform Anal Sport. 2017;17:763–73. [Google Scholar]
- 15.Amado KJM. Rapid weight loss in combative sports: Systematic literature review. Sci J Sport Perform. 2025;4:466–9. [Google Scholar]
- 16.Yang WH, Heine O, Grau M. Rapid weight reduction does not impair athletic performance of Taekwondo athletes - A pilot study. PLoS One. 2018;13:e0196568. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196568. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 17.Coswig VS, Miarka B, Pires DA, da Silva LM, Bartel C, Del Vecchio FB. Weight Regain, but not Weight Loss, Is Related to Competitive Success in Real-Life Mixed Martial Arts Competition. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2019;29:1–8. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2018-0034. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 18.Matthews JJ, Stanhope EN, Godwin MS, Holmes MEJ, Artioli GG. The Magnitude of Rapid Weight Loss and Rapid Weight Gain in Combat Sport Athletes Preparing for Competition: A Systematic Review. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2019;29:441–52. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2018-0165. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 19.Conceição-Santos DF, Bonitch-Góngora J, Almeida F, Benavente C, Gerber M, Ludyga S, Franchini E. Cognitive and technical-tactical adaptations to rapid weight loss in elite judoka. Percept Mot Skills. 2025:315125251388334. doi: 10.1177/00315125251388334. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 20.Mountjoy M, Sundgot-Borgen J, Burke L, Carter S, Constantini N, Lebrun C, Meyer N, Sherman R, Steffen K, Budgett R, Ljungqvist A. The IOC consensus statement: beyond the Female Athlete Triad--Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) Br J Sports Med. 2014;48:491–7. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2014-093502. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 21.Reale R, Slater G, Burke LM. Weight Management Practices of Australian Olympic Combat Sport Athletes. Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2018;13:459–66. doi: 10.1123/ijspp.2016-0553. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 22.Bromage S, Daria T, Lander RL, Tsolmon S, Houghton LA, Tserennadmid E, et al. Diet and nutrition status of Mongolian adults. Nutrients. 2020;12:1514. doi: 10.3390/nu12051514. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 23.Delgermaa D, Yamaguchi M, Nomura M, Nishi N. Assessment of Mongolian dietary intake for planetary and human health. PLoS Glob Public Health. 2023;3:e0001229. doi: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001229. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 24.Anyżewska A, Dzierżanowski I, Woźniak A, Leonkiewicz M, Wawrzyniak A. Rapid Weight Loss and Dietary Inadequacies among Martial Arts Practitioners from Poland. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2018;15:2476. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15112476. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 25.Artioli GG, Scagliusi F, Kashiwagura D, Franchini E, Gualano B, Junior AL. Development, validity and reliability of a questionnaire designed to evaluate rapid weight loss patterns in judo players. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2010;20:e177–87. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0838.2009.00940.x. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 26.Amatori S, Barley OR, Gobbi E, Vergoni D, Carraro A, Baldari C, Guidetti L, Rocchi MBL, Perroni F, Sisti D. Factors Influencing Weight Loss Practices in Italian Boxers: A Cluster Analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17:8727. doi: 10.3390/ijerph17238727. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 27.Ranisavljev M, Kuzmanovic J, Todorovic N, Roklicer R, Dokmanac M, Baic M, Stajer V, Ostojic SM, Drid P. Rapid Weight Loss Practices in Grapplers Competing in Combat Sports. Front Physiol. 2022;13:842992. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2022.842992. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 28.Coswig VS, Fukuda DH, Del Vecchio FB. Rapid Weight Loss Elicits Harmful Biochemical and Hormonal Responses in Mixed Martial Arts Athletes. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2015;25:480–6. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2014-0267. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 29.Sarıakçalı B, Şahin FN, Başoğlu B, Ceylan L, Güler Ö, Yamak B, Arıkan G, Acar GC, Sekban G, Durmuşoğlu MV, Çimen Polat S, Küçük H. The dual impact: physiological and psychological effects of rapid weight loss in wrestling. Front Psychol. 2025;15:1513129. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1513129. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 30.Sundgot-Borgen J, Meyer NL, Lohman TG, Ackland TR, Maughan RJ, Stewart AD, Müller W. How to minimise the health risks to athletes who compete in weight-sensitive sports review and position statement on behalf of the Ad Hoc Research Working Group on Body Composition, Health and Performance, under the auspices of the IOC Medical Commission. Br J Sports Med. 2013;47:1012–22. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2013-092966. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 31.Sundgot-Borgen J, Torstveit MK. Prevalence of eating disorders in elite athletes is higher than in the general population. Clin J Sport Med. 2004;14:25–32. doi: 10.1097/00042752-200401000-00005. [DOI] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 32.Currie A. Sport and eating disorders - understanding and managing the risks. Asian J Sports Med. 2010;1:63–8. doi: 10.5812/asjsm.34864. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 33.Barić R, Erdeljac T. Eating disorders in taekwondo athletes: the contribution of coach behavior, body satisfaction, and goal orientation. Sports (Basel) 2024;12:315. doi: 10.3390/sports12120315. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 34.Franchini E, Brito CJ, Artioli GG. Weight loss in combat sports: physiological, psychological and performance effects. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2012;9:52. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-9-52. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 35.Santos DFC, Yang WH, Franchini E. A scoping review of rapid weight loss in judo athletes: prevalence, magnitude, effects on performance, risks, and recommendations. Phys Act Nutr. 2024;28:1–12. doi: 10.20463/pan.2024.0017. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 36.Artioli GG, Franchini E, Nicastro H, Sterkowicz S, Solis MY, Lancha AH., Jr The need of a weight management control program in judo: a proposal based on the successful case of wrestling. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2010;7:15. doi: 10.1186/1550-2783-7-15. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 37.Pettersson S, Ekström MP, Berg CM. Practices of weight regulation among elite athletes in combat sports: a matter of mental advantage? J Athl Train. 2013;48:99–108. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-48.1.04. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- 38.Nascimento MVS, Reinaldo JM, Brito CJ, Mendes-Netto RS. Weight cutting is widespread among adolescent judoka regardless of experience level: the need of weight control and educational programs. J Phys Educ Sport. 2020;20:150–5. [Google Scholar]
- 39.Morales J, Curto C, Franchini E, Iteya M, Matsuda M, Pierantozzi E, Fukuda DH, González LM, Carballeira E. Trends in weight loss strategies and sources of guidance for high-level judo athletes during the last four decades. Sport Sci Health. 2026;22:148. [Google Scholar]