Why I’m Against Cutting Weight In BJJ

Getting an IV after a 20lbs weight cut

A topic that gets brought up from a lot of my newer students who plan to compete is about cutting weight in BJJ. I tell my students that I’m generally against cutting weight in BJJ.

In MMA it’s almost a weird measuring contest. Who can cut the most weight and be the biggest guy in the division? There are guys like Anthony Johnson who is a big 205lbs fighter and he used to fight 170lbs! It’s nuts.

Because many newcomers to BJJ are typically fans of MMA first ( I was this way). It’s only natural that cutting weight is going to be on their minds.

Instead of cutting lots of weight right before competition, I typically encourage my students to clean up their diet, do more cardio, and be at the weight they need to reach for the tournament.

Here’s why I’m Against Cutting Weight In BJJ

Most BJJ competitions have same day weigh ins. Tournaments like the IBJJF will even weigh you in right before your feet touch the mat. This is not enough time to adequately rehydrate if a person is cutting a fair amount of weight. Studies show that even a small percentage of dehydration can cause degradation in performance. You might be the biggest guy in your division. But it’s pointless if you don’t have a gas tank.

Strength matters less in BJJ. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still important. But in MMA strength and overall athletic ability plays a much larger role.

There are “right” ways to cut weight when needed. When I say right way. What I mean is, cutting weight in a way that is the least damaging to the body. Most people don’t cut weight very efficiently. You see professional fighters passing out and ,most recently, dying from bad weight cuts. Unless you’re experienced at cutting weight or have the guidance of someone who is, you’d be better off not cutting weight. Especially if you’re a inexperienced competitor.

As a coach, part of my job is to help my students get ready in a way where they are able to translate their abilities in the gym to the competition mats. We’ve all seen or heard of people who were really good in the gym but just flopped when it came time to compete. Having a wonky mental state is a big culprit of poor performance and being dehydrated and hungry takes a toll on our mindset when we are fighting off the negative self talk that accompanies a BJJ competition. Dieting weeks out before the competition and being “normal” when it comes time to compete will allow you to be at your best when it’s time to compete. On a nerdy note. In battles throughout history. One tactic that worked with a strong effect was attacking the enemy force in a way that disrupted their rest and food. A well fed and well rested combatant is stronger than his tired and hungry counterpart.

If You Must Cut Weight

Now let me add this side note. Some people can cut weight very well and with minimal damage to their body. But with BJJ competitions and same day weigh ins that’s just not a smart option.

But if you’re insistent on cutting weight.

Start with a test cut. Do your research and find a weight cutting regime that you can use. After dieting for at least 4-6 weeks to loose excess weight. Do the weight cut and get to the planned weight.

After you’ve successfully weighed in. Rehydrate with whatever protocol you wish to follow.

The day after your weight cut. Put yourself through a rigorous training session. See how your body performs right after it. This alone might be enough of a deterrent. But if it isn’t, at least you will have practice cutting and have a better idea of what to expect.

Right after the fight

Thanks for reading!

-Chewy