Reaching balance and sustainability: weight regulation in combat sports. A case study of a female boxer

Elite athletes’ body weight and body composition are considered central components in the endeavours of optimal performance (Rodriguez, Di Marco, & Langley, 2009). At the same time, research has demonstrated that physical appearance, nutrition and weight control are frequent sources of mental stress among elite athletes (Fletcher & Hanton, 2003; Hanton, Fletcher, & Coughlan, 2005). In order to optimize body composition and body weight prior to a competitive season or a major tournament, a state of negative energy balance is often required, typically achieved through a reduced food intake. Dietary practices where energy or nutrient intake is insufficient is not uncommon within sports or activities where a low body weight and/or physical appearance is considered vital, such as gymnastics or running (Okano et al., 2005), ballet (Dotti et al., 2002) or swimming (Schtscherbyna, Soares, de Oliveira, & Ribeiro, 2009). The emphasis on leanness and associated restricted food intake is also well documented among combat sports athletes, such as wrestlers (Dale & Landers, 1999), judokas (Artioli et al., 2010b) and boxers (Smith, 2006).