What is a healthy weight loss goal?
• Athletes are often under a lot of pressure to be at a certain weight for some types of sports. This often causes athletes to lose weight in unhealthy ways (skipping meals, using diet pills or laxatives, or vomiting). Unhealthy dieting can lead to unhealthy eating habits or eating disorders (anorexia or bulimia). Unhealthy dieting and heavy exercise may also affect menstrual (MEN-stroo-al) cycles and bone health in women. It may also affect the growth and development of young athletes. • A weight loss goal that is safe is one to two pounds per week. Losing weight too quickly may make you feel weak and may decrease your performance ability. It can also cause you to lose muscle along with fat. Doing resistance training three times a week may limit your loss of muscle as you lose fat. Check with your coach or trainer if you have questions about your workouts. • Ask your dietitian or caregiver to help you choose a good weight for your height, age, and activity level. What is a healthy die
