The Relationship Between Rapid Weight Loss Indicators And Selected Psychological Indicators On Success Of Croatian Wrestlers

Background and Study Aim: Reasons why wrestlers and athletes of other combat sports (boxing, judo, taekwondo, etc.) reduce weight loss are better anthropometric characteristics of wrestlers (longitudinal and skeletal volume) compared to opponents in lower weight categories, better focus and motivation of wrestlers, etc. Main cognitive goal of this research was knowledge about the relationship of rapid weight loss indicators and selected psychological indicators on success of Croatian wrestlers.Material and Methods: The research was conducted on 200 Croatian Greco-Roman style wrestlers. The amount of weight loss, the percentage of weight loss, and specific urine density (USG) were determined. Profile of Mood States Questionnaires (POMS), pre-competition anxiety (SCAI-2), goal orientation (TESQ), and intrinsic motivation (IMI) were used.Results: Statistically significant correlation (p = 0.003) of rapid weight loss indicators and selected psychological indicators, with success was determined. Statistically significant correlation was found in the POMS variables (fatigue, p = 0.014), pre-competitive anxiety (self-confidence, p = -0.017), task orientation (p = 0.019) and intrinsic motivation (competence, p = -0.025).Conclusions: Successful wrestlers, despite being dehydrated, are less tired, more interested, more satisfied, have greater confidence and are more task-oriented than less-successful wrestlers. It is assumed that there are differences between age groups of wrestlers which should be investigated by future research.