Effects of rapid weight loss on strength capabilities of powerlifters

Implementation of a ketogenic diet, low-fiber diet, and dehydration to induce a rapid loss of 5% of body mass as well as application of a recuperation process between weigh-ins and simulated competitions consisting of proper hydration and adequate carbohydrate supply. The following procedures/activities will be performed: - During the first week of the experiment, each athlete will reduce their usual training volume by 50% with training intensity maintained. Each athlete will perform 2 training units (participants will undergo a 1-hour exercise block consisting of their usual training regimen on days 1 and 3). On days 4-6, each athlete's eating habits will be assessed. - On day 7 at 9:00 am, baseline anthropometric measurements will be taken in the gym where the participants regularly train. Following the anthropometric measurements, athletes will complete mental status and lifestyle questionnaires. Between the anthropometric measurements and the start of the simulated powerlifting competition, there will be a 2-hour break. At 11:00 am a simulated competition in powerlifting triathlon will begin, during which the maximum strength of athletes will be measured; participants will undergo a powerlifting component including the squat, bench press, and deadlift. - On days 10-13, athletes in group one will follow a dietary strategy leading to a 5% rapid weight loss (nothing will occur if participants are not able to achieve the expected rapid 5% weight loss). - On day 10, there will be an additional single training - the training will be the same as day 3 of the study. - On day 14 at 9:00 am, control anthropometric measurements will be taken in the gym where the participants regularly train. Following the anthropometric measurements, athletes will complete UWIST Mood Adjective Check List in the Polish adaptation by Gorynska (2005). Between the anthropometric measurements and the start of the simulated powerlifting competition, there will be a 2-hour break. At 11:00 am a simulated competition in powerlifting competition will begin, during which the maximum strength of athletes will be measured. All the procedures will be conducted by the main investigator Arkadiusz Matras (dietician) and will be supported by Michal Czapla (dietician and paramedic). The Simulated competitions will be conducted in accordance with the rules of the IPF federation. The composition of the ketogenic and low-fiber diet included a detailed list of meals prepared in the form of an Individualized Nutrition Program (INP), which included a dietary schedule of meals including their composition expressed in grams and items, the caloric content of meals, macronutrient profile (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber), and meal consumption times. Participants will receive 2 days before the planned rapid weight loss procedure a written menu in the Kcalmar.pro program together with a shopping list and method of preparation and planned supplementation. The menu will be sent via e-mail. The expected rapid weight loss process will occur over 5 days (days 10-14). There was a 2-hour break between the anthropometric measurements and the start of the second simulated powerlifting competition, during which the competitors from the experimental group used a regeneration strategy consisting in consuming a bolus of 800 ml of Oral Rehydration Solution and then consuming 150% of the fluid weight they lost in the process of rapid weight reduction until the start of the simulated competition. All competitors consumed approximately 100 g of carbohydrates between body weight measurement and the start. During the simulated powerlifting competition, all participants had access to fluids and food ad libitum. The following strategies will be used to monitor adherence: - For adherence to eating habits: 3-day food diary: the diet will be checked for provided kilocalories, protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber according to the Institute of Food and Nutrition and USDA National Nutrient Database. - For adherence to training restrictions: email information sent by the athlete. - For adherence to a rapid 5% body weight loss strategy: body composition analysis performed using the InBody570 analyzer as well as constant e-mail and phone contact with athletes.