How to monitor body weight to enhance athletic performance?

Monitoring body weight is a practical way to assess energy balance. Weight stability, particularly during periods of heavy training and competition, indicates that energy requirements are being met. If body weight loss or weight gain is desired to enhance athletic performance, it is best addressed in the off-season. Weight loss during the competitive season places athletes at-risk for inadequate energy, carbohydrate and fluid intake. Weight gain in the form of body fat adversely affects endurance, speed and power. The suggested allowances for sports persons are given in Table.