Effects of rapid weight loss and dehydration on judo specific performance

The aim of the study was to examine the effects of 5% rapid weight loss and dehydration on repetitive performance and recovery specific to judo. Eighteen judoists voluntarily participated in the study. Attention was paid to athletes having at least 5 years of judo history and being weight-cyclers, participating in international competitions and not having any injuries that would affect their performance in the last 1 year. Athletes were randomly divided into two groups: control and study. Anthropometric and dehydration measurements and Special Judo Fitness Test were applied to the athletes both in the weight loss and control groups 3 times. After the first measurement, the control group was not intervened during the study, while the study group was given 48 hours to reduce 5% of their body weight. Meanwhile, the athletes continued their normal training. After rapid weight loss and 15 hours recovery, high dehydration was observed in the study group (p <0.01). There was a significant difference in performance variables after rapid weight loss and after 15 hours of recovery in the study group (p <0.05). While there was no significant difference in lactate values after rapid weight loss between the groups, the study group showed a higher heart rate after rapid weight loss after the special judo fitness tests (p <0.05).