Everything You Need To Know About Cutting Weight For Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Cutting weight is a common part of any mixed martial art, including jiu jitsu. Despite its prevalence, it is often misunderstood and confused with 'losing weight'. Or it is approached in an unhealthy manner. This article will unpack everything you need to know about cutting weight for Brazilian jiu jitsu.
What Does It Mean To 'Cut Weight' For Jiu Jitsu?
Cutting weight for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a process of losing excess body fat and water weight in order to make the desired weight class for competition. It is important to note that cutting weight should only be done under the supervision of a medical professional, as there are many health risks associated with extreme weight loss.
Why Do Jiu Jitsu Competitors Cut Weight?
There are a few reasons why people who compete in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu may choose to cut weight. The first reason is that it can give them a competitive advantage. Lighter fighters often have an easier time taking their opponents down and submitting them.
Another reason people may choose to cut weight is because it can help them make weight class. Jiu Jitsu has strict weight classes, so being at the lower end of the weight limit can give a fighter an advantage.
Lastly, some people simply feel more comfortable competing at a lower weight. Cutting weight can help them feel lighter and more agile on the mats.
If you're considering cutting weight for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, it's important to do so safely. Consult with your coach or doctor to make sure you're doing it in a healthy way. And remember, even if you don't win your first match, just keep training and eventually you'll tap out your opponents.
Cutting Weight Vs Losing Weight For Jiu Jitsu
The difference between cutting weight and losing weight is an important distinction to make when preparing for a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competition. Cutting weight is the process of intentionally losing water weight in order to make a certain weight class, while losing weight is simply dropping pounds through diet and exercise.
Cutting weight is a common practice in many sports where competitors are required to weigh in before competing, such as wrestling, boxing, and jiu jitsu. The goal is to lose enough water weight so that you can compete at a lower weight class than you normally would, giving you a size advantage over your opponents.
Losing weight, on the other hand, simply refers to dropping pounds through diet and exercise. This can be done year-round in order to maintain a healthy body weight, or it can be done leading up to a competition in order to drop down into a lower weight class. Unlike cutting weight, losing actual body fat will not dehydrate you or put your health at risk.
Tips For Cutting Weight For Jiu Jitsu
When it comes to cutting weight for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First and foremost, you need to be sure that you are physically healthy enough to handle the rapid weight loss. Secondly, you need to have a plan in place so that you can cut the weight safely and effectively. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:
- Drink plenty of water: This will help your body to flush out toxins and excess water weight.
- Cut out salt: Too much salt can lead to water retention, which will offset any weight you lose through sweating.
- Eat smaller meals more often: This will help to regulate your metabolism and prevent hunger pangs.
- Avoid processed foods: These tend to be high in sodium and unhealthy fats, which can sabotage your efforts.
- Get plenty of sleep: Sleep is crucial for recovery and helps to regulate hormones that control appetite.
- Exercise regularly: This will help boost your metabolism and promote healthy weight loss.
- Cut your water and carb intake 1 day before weigh-ins.
- Be sure to replenish and rehydrate with electrolytes post weigh-in.
The Negative Impacts Of Cutting Weight For Jiu Jitsu
When it comes to cutting weight for Jiu Jitsu, there are some serious pros and cons that need to be considered. On the one hand, dropping a few pounds can give you a strategic advantage during competition. But on the other hand, if not done correctly, severe dehydration and other health complications can occur. So before attempting to cut weight for BJJ, make sure you understand the risks and rewards involved.
One of the biggest dangers of cutting weight is dehydration. When you lose a lot of water quickly, your body isn’t able to function properly. This can lead to dizziness, headaches, cramping, and in extreme cases, organ failure.
Another downside of cutting weight is that it can negatively impact your performance. Dehydration can cause fatigue and muscle weakness, which will make it harder to execute techniques during a match. And if you lose too much weight too quickly, you may not have time to replenish glycogen stores and could end up feeling lightheaded and exhausted come fight time.
So while there are some potential benefits to cutting weight for Jiu Jitsu, make sure you do your research and understand the risks involved before trying it yourself. Dehydration is a serious danger that should not be taken lightly.
In Conclusion
If you're interested in trying your hand at Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you may find that you need to cut weight. Just a reminder that cutting weight should only be done under the supervision of a medical professional.