In recent years the Athletic Association has published a great deal of information on proper nutrition and weight control. This Update will address current research regarding safe weight loss. This indicates the body must have body fat to function properly.
Medical authorities recommend losing no more than two pounds per week.
When this is done through increased exercise and decreased calorie intake, weight loss will be due primarily to fat loss. It may be possible for some athletes to lose a maximum of four pounds in a week without dehydration, but muscle tissue will be lost along with the fat. It is not possible to lose weight faster than this without dehydration occurring. Such weight loss can also decrease the body's ability to cool itself. These methods primarily reduce the body's water and energy supplies, and cause more muscle loss than fat loss.