Impact of Weight Loss on Performance in Powerlifting: Differentiated Analysis of Basic Exercises

Abstract

Relevance. The relevance of the research topic lies in the insufficient study of the impact of weight loss on the performance of female powerlifters, particularly regarding the differentiated impact on various competitive exercises, which complicates the development of optimal training methods for competitions. Purpose and Methods of the Research.The purpose of the research is to determine the degree of impact of weight loss (3–5 %) on the performance of 31 qualified female powerlifters (age 22,4±3,1 years, qualification CMS and above) using a comprehensive approach that included anthropometry, pedagogical testing of maximum indicators in squats, bench press, and deadlift, as well as statistical analysis using Pearson's correlation analysis in the Statistica 13.0 program (significance level p<0,05). Results. The results showed a statistically significant strong correlation between weight loss and squat performance (r=0,69, p<0,01), where each kilogram of weight loss corresponded to an average performance decrease of 1,2±0,3 kg; a moderate correlation in the bench press (r=0,61, p<0,05) with a decrease of 0,64±0,2 kg; and no statistically significant correlation in the deadlift (r=0,30, p>0,05). Conclusions: Exercises with high loads on stabilizing muscles (squats, narrow grip bench press r=0,69) were found to be the most sensitive to weight loss, requiring the maintenance of optimal muscle mass, while technically complex exercises (deadlift, board press) showed less dependence on body weight (r=0,29–0,34) due to compensatory mechanisms of neuromuscular coordination. The obtained data justify the need for an individualized approach to the preparation of female powerlifters, taking into account the specific impact of weight changes on different types of exercises.