Weight

The measurement of weight (pounds) or mass (kilograms) by itself does not discriminate between fat mass and fat-free mass so is not a measure of body composition. Therefore, the statement "My weight is increasing, so I must be getting fat" is common but not necessarily correct. It is possible for an athlete to increase fat-free mass (i.e., muscle) without increasing fat mass. The result would be an increase in weight but not an increase in fat weight. It is also possible for an athlete to maintain weight but experience changes in fat or fat-free mass. This could be either desirable or undesirable depending on which element is increasing. All athletes, regardless of sport, find it desirable to achieve a high strength-to-weight ratio, which is associated with a relative increase in the ratio of fat-free mass to fat mass. This can be achieved by maintaining the fat-free mass while fat mass is decreased (lower total weight); increasing the fat-free mass while fat mass is maintained (higher total weight); increasing the fat-free mass while fat mass is decreased (lower total weight); or increasing the fat-free mass more than the increasing fat mass (higher total weight). As you can see, monitoring a change in weight alone is an inadequate means of understanding what really matters: the components of weight change. Although tracking weight is an appropriate measure for understanding the athlete's energy balance, it does nothing to explain whether the components of the weight are changing in a desirable direction. It is for this reason that body composition evaluation should be a standard component of the athlete assessment protocol.

Ideal Weight

Body Mass Index