MEDICO-BIOLOGICAL SUPPORT FOR 17-18-YEAR-OLD WRESTLERS IN THE PRE-COMPETITION PERIOD

Abstract

Pre-competition preparation for adolescent wrestlers requires comprehensive medico-biological support to optimize performance and safeguard health. This thesis reviews strategies for 17–18-year-old wrestlers in the lead-up to competition, focusing on medical monitoring, safe weight management, physiological conditioning, and recovery practices. Key challenges in this period include rapid weight loss to meet weight categories, risks of dehydration, accumulated fatigue, and injury prevention. Literature and field data indicate that improper weight-cutting can significantly impair strength and endurance, while evidence-based interventions—such as gradual weight control, hydration protocols, training tapering, and nutritional support—can enhance performance outcomes. For example, a one-week taper with a ~50% reduction in training load has been shown to improve wrestlers’ strength and reduce inflammatory markers before competitionaassjournal.comaassjournal.com. This review underscores that a coordinated medico-biological provision (regular medical exams, tailored diet, hydration, recovery therapies) is essential in the pre-competition phase. Implementing these measures helps 17–18-year-old wrestlers enter competitions at peak fitness with minimized health risks, ultimately improving competitive success.