The effect of acute weight loss due to dehydration on the power and torque of the knee joint of elite weightlifters at different angular velocities

Introduction: peak torque and peak joint power are two important variables in the performance of weightlifters. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of acute weight loss on the power and torque of the knee joint of elite weightlifters at different angular speeds of knee flexion and extension. Methods: The statistical sample of the research was selected according to the available method and included 10 elite weightlifters (at least 3 years of experience in national competitions) with an age range of 20 to 30 years. Using an isokinetic device, the peak extensor and flexor torque and the peak extensor and flexor power before and after weight loss (3% of body mass) in the sauna were calculated in the two superior and non-superior legs. Statistical analysis was performed using the correlated t-test. Results: The results showed that weight reduction caused a decrease in flexion and extensor torque in the left leg at angular speeds of 60, 180 and 360 degrees/second (p=0.001). In addition, in the angular velocity of 360 degrees per second, the flexion and extensor moment in the right leg has decreased significantly after weight loss (P=0.001). Conclusion: According to the results of the research, it can be said that rapid weight loss caused by sauna (approximately 3% of body mass) resulted in disturbances in torque, flexion and extensor power at different angular speeds, especially on the non-superior side.