A review of data from over 1,500 athletes looked at how much weight and fluid combat sports athletes regain after their official weigh-ins. The study found that athletes typically regained about 6.23% of their body mass, which averages to roughly 3.71 kilograms. Some athletes even regained over 100% of the weight they lost before the weigh-in.
It is important to note that gaining weight does not mean an athlete is fully rehydrated or ready to perform at their best. The researchers found that while weight gain happens, it is not a reliable way to measure if a person's body is fully restored. Because different athletes use different methods, the study could not identify one specific nutrition or hydration plan that works better than others.
Because the data on performance and specific recovery methods were varied, the results are not enough to recommend a single winning strategy. Athletes should work with their medical team to develop a personalized plan. This study highlights that while weight returns after a weigh-in, it is not a simple guarantee of physical readiness.
