ABSTRACT
In contrast to a loss of fat mass, some athletes seek to gain body mass. If a body mass-gaining program is not properly planned and executed, there may also be unwanted outcomes, such as increases in fat mass, which may compromise performance. This chapter presents a simple yet comprehensive strategy to guide the athlete and his or her support staff in their attempts to optimize body composition. Throughout this chapter, most of the examples and discussion will revolve around the assumption that the athlete desires to reduce fat mass. However, at times, athletes wish to increase lean body mass. Strategies for increasing lean body mass are discussed toward the end of the chapter in the Section 9.7, “Principles of Weight Gain for Athletes.”
