Mood States of Division III Collegiate Wrestlers

A THESIS
Submitted to the Faculty of the School of Graduate Studies
and Research
of
California University of Pennsylvania in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of
Master of Science

by
Neil G Matz

Research Advisor, Dr. Carol Biddington
California, Pennsylvania
2010

i

ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
There are a number of people I would like to thank for
helping me get where I am today.
My family has always been there for me. I cannot thank
them enough for all the support they give in every decision
I make in life. Their support and encouragement has always
been a driving force and knowing they have been behind me
has been a great help. I appreciate all their patience with
me, especially during my calls home just to vent.
Dr. Carol Biddington deserves recognition as well as
the main driving force behind completing my thesis on time.
There were many times where things got rough, but this is
when she would push and challenge me and that was the drive
I needed to finish. I would also like to thank Dr. Joni Roh
and Dr. Taunya Tinsley for their insight and suggestions to
help improve my work. Thanks must also go out to Dr. Thomas
West. Without his help, I never would have finished my
thesis in time.
Thank you to Mike Malesic (Athletic Director), the
coaching staff, and athletes at McGuffey High School. You
all made the transition into my first athletic training
assignment as a certified athletic trainer both enjoyable
and educational. Your patience and understanding when I had

iii
to leave a practice early or miss a game to get research
done really meant a lot to me. Thanks for helping me make
it through the year with my sanity intact and for being an
outlet for stress by making my job fun and relaxing.
I cannot go without thanking the coaches and athletes
from my 4 subject colleges and universities. You were very
patient with me from the beginning and without your help
this research would not have been possible.
Last, but not least, I would like to thank my fellow
graduate assistants. I know I didn’t always hang out with
the group, but you guys kept the time at Cal U relaxed,
fun, and as enjoyable as the little town can be.

iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
SIGNATURE PAGE

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i

AKNOWLEDGEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
LIST OF TABLES

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

LIST OF FIGURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
INTRODUCTION
METHODS

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

Research Design

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8

Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8

Subjects

Procedures

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Hypotheses

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Data Analysis
RESULTS .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Demographic Data .
Hypothesis Testing .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Additional Findings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
DISCUSSION .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Discussion of Results .
Conclusion

. . . . . . . . . . . . 29

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Recommendations

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

v
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
APPENDIX A: Review of Literature
Weight Loss

. . . . . . . . . 46

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Rules for Cutting Weight

. . . . . . . . . 48

Techniques for Cutting Weight

. . . . . . . 52

Effects of Rapid Weight Loss . . . . . . . . .
Physical Effects

. . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Psychological Effects
Non-Wrestlers
Summary

54

. . . . . . . . . . 56

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

APPENDIX B: The Problem
Definition of Terms
Basic Assumptions

. . . . . . . . . . . . 68
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Limitations of the Study

. . . . . . . . . . . 70

Delimitations of the Study . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Significance of the Study

. . . . . . . . . . . 71

APPENDIX C: Additional Methods
Informed Consent Form (C1)

. . . . . . . . . 73
. . . . . . . . . . 75

Profile of Mood States Survey (C2)

. . . . . . . 78

Email To Coaches (C3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
California University of Pennsylvania
IRB Forms (C4)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

IRB Requested Follow-up

vi
Letter to Coaches (C5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Letter to Meet Coaches (C6) . . . . . . . . . . . 98
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
ABSTRACT

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

vii
LIST OF TABLES

Table
1

Title
Demographics of Wrestlers

Page
. . . . . . 13

2

Certification Weight Class . . . . . . 14

3

Class Rank

4

Normal Starter at Weight Class

5

Alternate Wrestler for Weight Class

6

Currently Cutting Weight . . . . . . . 17

7

Normally Worry About Cutting Weight

8

Typical Weight Loss Effort . . . . . . 18

9

Pearson Product-Moment Correlation
between the TMD Scores and
Number of days per
7 days cutting weight . . . . . . . . 19

10

Pearson Product-Moment Correlation
between the TMD Scores and
Number of days per
30 days cutting weight . . . . . . . . 20

11

A One-Way ANOVA for TMD
Scores among weight classes . . . . . . 22

12

Pearson Product-Moment Correlation
between the Number of Pounds
Fluctuated and Certification Weight. . . 23

13

Pearson Product-Moment Correlation
between the Typical Weight Loss Effort
and TMD Scores . . . . . . . . . . . 24

14

A one-way ANOVA for TMD Scores among
Class Rank
. . . . . . . . . . . . 26

. . . . . . . . . . . . 16
. . . . 16
. . 16

. . 17

viii
15

A one-way ANOVA for Number of Pounds Fluctuate
between Matches among Class Rank
. . . . . . 26

ix
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Title
Weight Class Certification Scores
for Mood States
. . . . . . . . .

Page
15

TMD Scores for
7 Days Cutting Weight . . . . . . .

19

TMD Scores for
30 Days Cutting Weight . . . . . . .

21

Pounds Fluctuated and
Certification Weight Class . . . . .

23

Typical Weight Loss Effort
and Total Mood States . . . . . . .

25

Mean Scores for Number of Days
Spent Cutting Weight
. . . . . . .

27

Mood Profiles of Wrestlers
Compared to Healthy Mood
Profiles of Swimmers
. . . . . . .

28

1
INTRODUCTION

Wrestling places a high metabolic demand on the body
and a vast amount of energy is required to allow peak
performance in an athlete. However, wrestling is known for
placing restrictions on weight, both to keep the
competition level and to keep the athletes safe. These
restrictions may hinder the athlete’s ability to maintain
proper nutrition levels while staying at their
certification weight. Throughout a season a wrestler may
undergo a wide range of weight fluctuation both gaining and
losing weight. This rapid changing of weight, whether loss
or gain, has an effect on the body. Physically, rapid
weight loss can have drastic effects on the body. Mentally,
rapid weight loss can affect the athlete’s concentration
and other cognitive processes.
The negative effects of rapid weight loss can be seen
best in a series of incidences that occurred during the
1997-1998 wrestling season. Three wrestlers died within
weeks of each other because of improper weight loss
techniques.1 The average amount of weight lost by these
three athletes was a combined 14.5 pounds in only 13 hours.
A healthy amount of time to lose 14.5 pounds is 8 weeks.
These unfortunate deaths led to the NCAA changing some

2
rules regarding weight loss.2-4 Studies were also conducted
evaluating different effects cutting weight has on the
mental and physical functions of the athlete. These studies
examined things ranging from mood state and emotions5-9 to
body mass, hormone dysfunction, and incidence of injury.2,1013

The NCAA has many rules and regulations regarding the
health and safety of its athletes.13 These rules govern how
a wrestler may lose weight, how much weight they can lose
in a set period of time, when they weigh in, and the amount
of time allowed for the wrestler to reach a specific weight
in a safe manner.
These new rule changes have led to studies being
performed on their effectiveness in both keeping athletes
healthy and allowing them to reach their prospective weight
class. Three different studies evaluated all three
divisions of wrestling,2 the changes in weight loss before
and after matches,14 and at 7 different rule changes and how
they affect the athletes.13
Different techniques were examined for proper
mechanisms to losing weight in wrestling. There are many
different ways to cut weight. An athlete can work out and
diet regularly. They can also take more drastic measures
such as working out in a heated room, restricting food

3
intake, restricting fluids, increasing exercise, and
working out while wearing sweat impermeable suits (anything
that interferes with the body’s ability to thermoregulate
properly).
Oppliger et al4 performed a study which examined the
different ways that wrestlers lose weight to help determine
if the new rule changes have any effect. They took a survey
of 52 different schools with a response of 19 subjects per
team. The subjects were asked different questions about
their weight loss methods, competitive performance/extent
of weight loss, and their assessment of their eating
behaviors. The results of this survey showed that the rule
changes did seem to have some effect on how the athletes
cut weight and that even though wrestlers know the proper
ways to lose weight, they may use unsafe methods when the
wrestlers feel the need calls for other weight loss
methods.4
One main concern about cutting weight is the effect
that rapid weight loss has on the body, both physically and
mentally. The physical changes can be seen in muscles mass
changes, losses in strength, and in decreases in endurance.
One study10 examined the decreases in muscle mass and
strength using a Biodex dynamometer to measure their force
production. When evaluating body mass, there was a

4
significant increase in body mass from the midseason to
postseason checks at 2.9% (2.38kg). There was also a
significant increase of 3.8% (3.1kg) from preseason to
postseason. Another study also showed that a decrease in
hormone production during periods of cutting weight may not
be harmful for short periods, but when the results last for
a time, over a season, they can have negative effects on
the health of the athlete. These effects can have an even
greater affect in younger athletes who are still
developing.10
Minimal research has been conducted on the
psychological effects. Having the proper knowledge of the
effects that cutting weight has on the psychology of
athletes and their psychosocial development is especially
important for collegiate and high school level athletes.
Cognitively, these athletes are still learning and may be
put at a disadvantage in the classroom if they are focused
or not performing at their best due to cutting weight.
There have been studies which evaluated the changes on the
mood states, the changes in cognition levels, and how an
athlete perceives their performance.
For example, Landers et al.8 examined the effect of
weight loss on cognition using high school wrestlers. There
were 45 athletes who were actively cutting weight. During

5

this time, they were given a series of cognitive tests and
the results showed a decreased performance level in the
experimental group.8 Other studies examined mood states and
how they were affected by the act of cutting weight. These
studies all showed a decrease in mood states over a period
of time while cutting weight.5-7 Thus suggesting that after
cutting weight for a period of time, the negative mood was
more prevalent.
Other sports may also be affected by the requirements
to cut weight.15-19 They include different martial arts,
boxing, and horse racing. These other sports were shown to
be affected by cutting weight just like wrestlers. These
effects ranged from an increase in negative moods, decrease
in cognitive function and concentration, and increase in
concerns about weight and appearance.15-19
While other studies have examined the effects of
weight loss on the physical and mental aspects of athletes,
there is limited research regarding specific weight
classes. The differences in weight classes may lead to
different results between subjects especially since some
wrestlers need to worry about cutting weight more than
other wrestlers.

6
The purpose of this study is to answer the following
research questions: (1) Is there a correlation between
cutting weight over a 7 day period and mood state? (2) Is
there a correlation between cutting weight over a 30 day
period and mood states? (3) Is there a difference in mood
state scores amongst weight classes?

7
METHODS

The following section will detail the methods employed
in this research project. Included in this section are
Research Design, Subjects, Instruments, Procedures,
Hypotheses, and Data Analyses for the following descriptive
research.

Research Design

This descriptive research examined the correlation
between periods of time cutting weight and the mood state
of Division III collegiate wrestlers. The independent
variables were days per week of cutting weight, days per
month cutting weight, and weight class. The dependent
variable was the scores for the Profile Of Mood States
(POMS) survey. This research may expand the knowledge
athletic trainers, physicians, sport psychologists,
counselors, and other sports medicine professionals have
regarding mood state and weight loss. This study may not be
applicable to all wrestling athletes as it is only being
conducted in the Metropolitan Conference of NCAA Division
III wrestling.

8
Subjects

The subjects consisted of 56 Division III wrestling
athletes from 4 different schools in Pennsylvania averaging
14 wrestlers per team. The subjects ranged from freshmen to
seniors and had varying levels of experience. The teams
included Wilkes University, York College, Waynesburg
University, and Washington and Jefferson University. The
researcher met with each team at a predetermined time
agreed upon by both the researcher and team coach. The
researcher explained to the subjects their role in the
study. All subjects were asked to complete a packet
containing an Informed Consent Form (Appendix C1) and the
Profile of Mood States (POMS) survey (Appendix C2). All
subjects had the right not to participate in the study and
subject numbers varied according to willingness of
participants.

Instruments

All subjects were given a packet which included an
informed consent form and the Profile of Mood States (POMS)
survey. Demographic questions included current age, year in
school, certification weight class, average weight

9
fluctuation between matches, current weight, starting
position, alternate position, concerns about cutting
weight, currently cutting weight, average number of days
spent actively cutting weight in the past 7 days, and
average number of days spent actively cutting weight in the
past 30 days.
The Profile of Mood States (POMS) was used to measure
the mood states of the athletes or how the athletes feel at
a given time. The POMS is a 65 question self-reported
survey which measures six subscales: 1) anger items
including ―angry‖ and ―peeved‖, 2) depression items
including ―unhappy‖ and ―sad‖, 3) tension items including
―tense‖ and ―worried‖, 4) confusion items including
―uncertain‖ and ―confused‖, 5) fatigue items including
―listless‖ and ―worn out‖, and 6) vigor items including
―clear-headed‖ and ―considerate‖. The POMS consists of a 5point Likert scale ranging from 1(not at all) to
5(extremely). All subjects circle the corresponding number
according to their present mood state. All subscales are
tallied and a Total Mood Disturbance score (TMD) is
measured adding the Anger, Depression, Confusion, Tension,
and Fatigue scores and subtracting from that number, the
Vigor score. A value of 100 points is added to each score
to assure a positive value. The higher the number, the

10
greater the incidence the athlete faces for psychological
disturbance or negative mood state.

The range of the TMD

score is -32 to +200, with higher scores indicating more
mood disturbance. The POMS is commonly used in sport and
exercise psychology5-8,17,18 and has an internal consistency
reported at 0.63 to 0.96 Cronbach alpha rating for each
subscale and TMD scale.20
All subjects were asked to answer the questions on the
survey honestly and to the best of their ability. The
subjects were not required to write their names anywhere on
the survey to secure their privacy.

Procedures

A Letter to Coaches (Appendix C3) introducing the
researcher and explaining the purpose of the study was
emailed to the head coaches for each institution surveyed.
This email detailed information to inform the athletes what
was expected of them. Response to this email provided
consent for the researcher to meet with each team. The
proposal of study along with each coach’s permission
letters were submitted to the California University of
Pennsylvania Institutional Review Board (IRB) (Appendix C4)
for approval. IRB required a letter (Appendix C5)

11
explaining to the coaches that they were not responsible
for recruiting/requiring/coercing potential subjects. This
letter was emailed to the four coaches. After IRB approval
was received, a Letter to Meet Coaches (Appendix C6) was
emailed to the head coaches for each of these schools to
set up a meeting date.

A follow up phone call was made to

verify the receipt of the email. The researcher visited the
schools at the agreed upon time to collect the data. When
meeting with each team, the researcher talked with the
athletes and explained the purpose and idea of the study.
The researcher discussed how it will benefit them and
answered any questions they had. The athletes were given a
packet containing an informed consent form and the POMS
survey. The athletes were asked to answer each question
honestly and to the best of their ability. Upon completion
of the survey packet, the packet was sealed in a locked
cabinet that only the researcher had access to until all
surveys were distributed and the results collected.

Hypotheses

The following hypotheses were used for this study:
1) There will be a correlation between number of days
per week cutting weight and mood state.

12
2) There will be a correlation between number of days
per month cutting weight and mood state.
3) There will be a difference between weight classes
for mood state.

Data Analysis

The level of significance used for testing the
hypotheses was set at an alpha level of .05.
1) A Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was used to
determine if there was a correlation between number
of days per week cutting weight and mood state.
2) A Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was used to
determine if there was a correlation between number
of days per month cutting weight and mood state.
3) An ANOVA was used to determine if there was a
difference between weight classes for mood state.

13
RESULTS

Demographic Data

The sample consisted of Division III wrestlers (N=56)
from Waynesburg University, Wilkes University, Washington
and Jefferson University, and York College in Pennsylvania.
Table 1 represents characteristics about the wrestlers of
this study.
Table 1. Demographics of Wrestlers
Characteristic
Range
Age
18-23

Mean ± SD
19.87 ± 1.19

Certification
weight Class

125-285

169.89 ± 47.52

Pounds fluctuated
between matches

0-19

7.67 ± 3.93

Survey Weight

126-295

176.64 ± 36.38

Number of days cutting
In 7 days

0-6

2.13 ± 2.06

Number of days cutting
In 30 days

0-28

11.61 ± 8.69

Table 2 shows the number of responses for each weight
class. The wrestlers responses broken down by weight class
are 125 lbs (9%), 133 lbs (12%), 141 lbs (9%), 149 lbs
(18%), 157 lbs (11%), 165 lbs (7%), 174 lbs (11%), 184 lbs
(4%), 197 lbs (4%), 285 lbs (12%). *Note that 183 and 177

14
are not typical NCAA weight classes but were filled in by
the subjects.

Table 2. Certification Weight Class
Classification
Lower Weight
125
133
Middle Weight
141
149
157
165
174
184
Heavy Weight
197
285
*177
*183

Frequency

Percent

5
7

8.8
12.3

5
10
6
4
6
2

8.8
17.5
10.5
7.0
10.5
3.5

2
7
1
1

3.5
12.3
1.8
1.8

Figure 1 shows the distribution ranges of the mood
state scores based upon certification weight class.

15
Figure 1.

Weight Class Certification Scores for Mood

States

Table 3 shows the class ranking of wrestlers. A
majority of the wrestlers were freshmen (33%) and
sophomores (35%). Seniors totaled 16% of responses, juniors
totaled 9%, and redshirt other counted for 5%.

16
Table 3. Class Rank
Classification
Redshirt Freshman
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Redshirt Other

Frequency
0
19
20
5
9
3

Percent
0.0
33.3
35.1
8.8
15.8
5.3

Table 4 states the frequency of wrestlers who are
considered the starter at their weight class. A slight
majority of those who responded are considered to be a
starter at their weight class (60%) while 40% of those are
not considered starters.
Table 4. Normal Starter at Weight Class
Classification
Frequency
Yes
34
No
22

Percent
59.6
38.6

Table 5 shows the frequency of wrestlers who are
considered to be the alternate in their weight class. When
asked if they were considered the alternate wrestler at
their weight class a slight majority stated that they were
(26%) while a small number were not (11%).
Table 5. Alternate Wrestler for Weight Class
Classification
Frequency
Percent
Yes
15
26.3
No
6
10.5

17

Table 6 shows the frequency of those wrestlers
currently cutting weight. The responses were a majority of
No to currently cutting weight (93%) while only 6%
responded Yes.
Table 6. Currently Cutting Weight.
Classification
Frequency
Yes
3
No
53

Percent
5.3
93.0

Table 7 shows the number of subjects who worry about
cutting weight in the off-season and those who do not. When
asked if they worry about cutting weight in the off season,
21% responded that Yes, they worry. A majority (77%) stated
that No, they do not normally worry about cutting weight.
Table 7. Normally Worry about Cutting Weight
Classification
Frequency
Percent
Yes
12
21.1
No
44
77.2

Table 8 states the weight loss effort amongst the
subjects. A majority of the subjects found typical weight
loss effort to be either fairly hard (21%) or quite a bit
of work (37%). Other responses included not hard at all
(14%), a little effort (9%), and extremely hard (18%).

18

Table 8. Typical Weight Loss Effort
Classification
Frequency
Not Hard at All
8
A little effort
5
Fairly Hard
12
Quite a bit of work
21
Extremely Hard
10

Percent
14.0
8.8
21.1
36.8
17.5

Hypothesis Testing

The level of significance used for testing the
hypotheses was set at an alpha level of .05.
Hypothesis 1: There will be a correlation between
number of days per week cutting weight and mood state.

A Pearson Product-Moment Correlation coefficient was
calculated for the relationship between the TMD scores and
the number of days cutting weight in a 7 day period. A
weak, yet significant, positive correlation was found (r54 =
.383, p < .01), indicating significant linear relationship
between the two variables. The more days spent cutting
weight in a 7 day period, the higher the negative mood. The
results can be seen in Table 9 and Figure 2.

19
Table 9. Pearson Product-Moment Correlation between the
TMD Scores and Number of days per 7 days cutting weight
Variable
n
r
P
TMD Scores
56
.383
.004
and Number of
Days

Figure 2. TMD Scores for 7 Days Cutting Weight

(r54 = .383, p < .01)

Hypothesis 2: There will be a correlation between
number of days per month cutting weight and mood state.

20
A Pearson Product-Moment Correlation coefficient was
used to calculate the relationship between the TMD scores
and the number of days cutting weight in a 30 day period. A
weak, yet significant, positive correlation was found (r54 =
.288, p < .05) was found and this shows that there is a
linear relationship between total mood scores and number of
days in a 30 day period cutting weight. The more days spent
cutting weight in a 30 day period, the higher the negative
mood. These results can be seen in Table 10 and Figure 3.
Table 10. Pearson Product-Moment Correlation between the
TMD Scores and Number of days per 30 days cutting weight
Variable
n
r
P
TMD Scores
56
.288
.035
and Number of
Days

21
Figure 3. TMD Scores for 30 Days Cutting Weight

(r54 = .288, p < .05)

Hypothesis 3: There will be a difference between
weight classes for mood state.

The TMD scores from three different weight class
categories were compared using a one-way ANOVA. No
significant difference was found (F2,53= .463, p > .05). The
subjects from the three different weight classes did not
vary amongst TMD. Subjects who were lightweight (n=12) had
a mean score of 144.58±30.68. Subjects who were

22

middleweight (n=35) had a mean score of 135.83±28.67.
Subjects who were heavyweight (n=9) had a mean score of
142.67±35.55. The results can be seen in Table 11.

Table 11. A One-Way ANOVA for TMD Scores Among Weight
Classes.
Type III
df
MS
F
P
Sum of
Squares
Between
844.951
2
422.476
.463
.632
Groups
Within
48409.888
53
913.394
Groups
Total
49254.839
55

Additional Findings

Additional testing examined a correlation between the
amount of weight that a subject fluctuates between matches
and their certification weight.
A Pearson Product-Moment Correlation coefficient was
used and results showed a weak, yet significant,
correlation between the two variables (r54 = -.334, p <
.05). The results of this can be seen in Table 12 and
Figure 2. These results indicate a negative correlation
between the certification weight class and the amount of
weight the wrestler fluctuates between matches showing that
as the certification weight class gets higher the less

23
weight is fluctuated between matches. These results can be
seen in Table 12 and Figure 4
Table 12. Pearson Product-Moment Correlation between the
Number of Pounds Fluctuated and Certification Weight
Variable
n
r
P
Number of
55
-.334
.013
Pounds
Fluctuated
and
Certification
Weight

Figure 4. Pounds Fluctuated and Certification Weight Class

(r54 = -.334, p < .05)

24
Another Pearson Product-Moment Correlation was run
using the TMD Scores and the total weight loss effort to
determine any relationship between the effort
needed by the subject to cut weight and their TMD. The
results of this calculation showed a weak, yet significant
correlation between TMD scores and weight loss effort (r54 =
.269, p < .05). These results show a positive correlation
which shows that the greater the effort the athlete must
exert to cut weight the greater their TMD scores. The
results of this can be seen in Table 13 and Figure 5.
Table 13. Pearson Product-Moment Correlation between the
Typical Weight Loss Effort and TMD Scores
Variable
n
r
P
Typical
56
.269
.045
Weight Loss
Effort and
TMD Scores

25
Figure 5. Typical Weight Loss Effort and TMD Scores

(r54 = .296, p < .05)
The higher number of freshmen and sophomore responses
led to additional testing which examined any differences
between class rank for TMD and between class rank for
amount of weight fluctuated between matches.
An ANOVA was run examining class rank for TMD and the
results of this test can be seen in Table 14. This test
compared the TMD scores between freshman and sophomores
(lower classmen) and juniors and seniors (upper classmen).

26
There was no significance difference found F1,51= .760, p >
.05).
Table 14. A One-Way ANOVA for TMD Scores Among Class Rank.
Type III
df
MS
F
P
Sum of
Squares
Between
683.693
1
683.693
.760
.387
Groups
Within
45879.326
51
899.595
Groups
Total
46563.019
52

An ANOVA was run examining class rank for number of
pounds fluctuated between matches and the results of this
test can be seen in Table 15. This test compared the Number
of Pounds Fluctuated between Matches between freshman and
sophomores (lower classmen) and juniors and seniors (upper
classmen). There was no significance difference found F1,50=
.092, p > .05).

Table 15. A One-Way ANOVA for Number of Pounds
Fluctuated between Matches Among Class Rank.
Type III
df
MS
F
P
Sum of
Squares
Between
1.442
1
1.422
.092
.763
Groups
Within
781.538
50
15.631
Groups
Total
782.981
51

27
Mean scores were examined to observe the average
number of days that were spent cutting weight as
represented by each group of weight classes (lightweight,
middleweight, and heavyweight). Figure 6 shows the average
number of days spent by each group cutting weight over both
7 and 30 days.

Figure 6. Mean Scores for Number of Days Spent Cutting
Weight

28
All subscales were evaluated and charted in Figure 7
representing the mean scores for each subscale.
Specifically, the figure indicates that individuals
expressed a higher degree of anger than any other mood, and
confusion was the least reported emotion and closely
representing a flattened mood profile which suggests a mood
disturbance.21

Figure 7. Mood Profiles of Wrestlers Compared to Healthy
Mood Profiles of Swimmers

29
DISCUSSION

Discussion of Results

The focus of this study was to determine the effect that
cutting weight has on the overall mood states of collegiate
wrestlers. The researcher evaluated Total Mood States, the
number of days spent cutting weight in both a 7 day and 30
day period, certification weight class, and number of
pounds lost fluctuated between typical matches. It is
important to note that the higher the score for TMD, the
more negative the mood of the subject.
Hypothesis 1 proposed that there would be a
correlation between number of days per week cutting weight
and mood state. There was a significant difference found
between the two categories showing that the number of days
in a 7 day period spent cutting weight has a significant
effect on the overall mood scores of the athlete. These
results agree with other findings10,11 that showed a negative
change in mood states that is dependent on the period of
time, such as early in the season, cutting weight.
Hypothesis 2 proposed that there would be a
correlation between number of days per month spent cutting
weight and mood state. The results showed a significant

30
relationship between the two variables showing that the
higher the number of days in a 30 day period spent cutting
weight, the higher the TMD and the more negative the effect
on the overall mood state of the athlete.
These results coincide with other studies that showed
the negative effects cutting weight has on the mood state
of athletes.11,12 These results indicate that those athletes
who spend a greater amount of time cutting weight, whether
it be in a 7 day or 30 day period, will have a greater
tendency to have an increased negative mood state. Athletes
who display higher scores on the POMS should be monitored
by the appropriate healthcare professionals as these
athletes may tend to lean towards psychological
dysfunction.
For example, athletes that are in weight restricting
sports may benefit from completion of the POMS at the
beginning of each season, such as with concussion testing,
to formulate a baseline for each athlete’s mood state. This
baseline can then be used throughout the season if the
coaches or athletic trainers notice a change in the
athlete’s attitude or personality. This testing can be
performed in conjunction with the institute’s counseling
department to increase resources more readily available to
the athlete.

31
Hypothesis 3 proposed that there would be a difference
in mood scores between weight classes. The results showed
no significant difference but what should be noted are the
mean scores. The middleweight classes had a mean score that
was about 7 points lower than the lightweight and
heavyweight classes. This difference could be made more
noticeable with a greater number of subjects. The results,
as they are, show that regardless of weight class athletes
have TMD. This is important for athletes, coaches, and
athletic trainers to know because the more an athlete has
to work to maintain a steady weight, such as those in the
middle weight classes; the more likely they may be to
resort to potentially unhealthy weight cutting methods.
Additionally, they may be more likely to have mood
disturbances that may require additional attention by the
appropriate mental health care professional.
Coaches and athletic trainers should be aware that
these athletes are under the most stress while cutting
weight during the season. These athletes need to be
monitored around match time to help avoid any problems that
may arise such as improper weight loss and increased
negative moods.
A positive, yet weak correlation was found to be
significant between the TMD and the total weight loss

32
effort of an athlete. This correlation shows that the
athletes that have to work harder to cut weight have more
of a negative mood than those able to lose weight easily.
These athletes are the ones who need to be monitored for
complications arising from their attempts at weight loss.
Not only are they more likely to have a greater instance of
negative moods, but they also may be more likely to lean
towards drastic and possibly unhealthy weight loss
techniques. These athletes may also be at a greater risk of
eating disorders, especially eating disorders not otherwise
specified.
Correlations were also conducted between the amount of
weight a subject fluctuates between matches and their main
certification weight. A significant relationship was found
which shows that as the certification weight class
increases, the wrestlers need to lose less weight between
matches.
Figure 1 depicts that those wrestlers who scored the
lowest, on average, in TMD scores were those wrestlers in
the 149 pound weight class. Those who scored highest, on
average, were in the 141 pound weight class. The wrestlers
who need to be most closely monitored for mood state

33
disturbances are those in the 141 pound weight class. These
results can be seen in Figure 1.
When evaluating the differences between class rank for
TMD scores, as seen in Table 14, Freshmen/Sophomores had a
mean score of 138.28±30.858 while juniors/seniors had a
mean score of 146.43±27.309. The mean scores and standard
deviations show a potentially large amount of overlap
between the two groups which can explain the lack of
significance.
When evaluating the differences between class rank for
number of pounds fluctuated between matches, as seen in
Table 15, the freshmen/sophomores had a mean score of
7.38±3.984 and juniors/seniors had a mean score of
7.77±3.855. These mean scores along with the standard
deviations help explain the lack of significance between
groups because of the potential overlap of scores.
One other reason for the higher number of freshmen and
sophomore responses may be due to natural attrition of
sports. This means that as the athletes move through
school, the chances of them not participating in a sport
increase secondary to other scholastic responsibilities.
Figure 6 shows the mean scores for the number of days
spent cutting weight in a set time period. It can be seen

34
that those wrestlers who most often cut weight are in what
can be considered to be the middle weights (141-184). Over
a seven day period, almost 39% of those who responded said
that they spend zero days cutting weight, while almost 16%
of them say they spend 5 days cutting weight in this same
time frame. Over a 30-day period, the percentage of
wrestlers who cut weight for zero days drops to 19.3% and
almost 9% of them cut weight for 25 of thirty days. These
changes in percentages indicate that as the time frame
increases for cutting weight so does the number and
frequency of the wrestlers who cut weight.
The average scores for each individual subscale are
Anger (24), Vigor (18), Fatigue (17), Depression (17),
Tension (16), and Confusion (10).

Figure 7 is a visual

representation of how the total scores for each mood
subscale lie in comparison to each other. This
representation shows that the subjects tend to feel higher
anger while cutting weight. A normal iceberg profile shows
a high Vigor score and lower scores in the other 5
subscales and is indicative of positive mental health.
However, when there is increased amounts of stress,
physical or mental, one’s mental health can be challenged
and is depicted with the flattening of the mood.

35
For example, the mood states of male and female
collegiate swimmers measured and compared at early season,
mid-season and late season. During mid-season evaluation of
collegiate swimmers, a sample of swimmers showed a decrease
in Vigor scores and an increase in Fatigue scores.

21

This

returned to normal during the post-season evaluation. Figure
7, showing elevated Anger and a marked decline in Vigor
score would constitute continued monitoring by health care
professionals and possibly mental health care professionals
especially if the moods remain flattened. Additionally,
further studies should be performed to check how long the
negative mood states remain flattened.
Athletic trainers have an ethical responsibility to
provide the best care possible to their athletes.22 In time
they may encounter problems or situations that lie out of
their scope of practice or personal knowledge background,
because of this athletic trainers need to be able to know
who to refer their patients to for further or advanced
care. Athletic trainers often find themselves in the role
of confidant and counselor to their athletes. This is an
understandable position to be in given the amount of time
spent with their athletes. This also means that athletic
trainers need to be aware of potential psychological issues

36
they may encounter, know at least the basics of them, and
understand who to refer the athlete to if the athletic
trainer encounters something outside of their scope of
practice. This is especially important amongst newly
certified athletic trainers.
This research benefits other professions as well.
Professional counselors and psychologists may be utilized
by athletic trainers to help care for those athletes that
are in weight restricting sports. One benefit can arise
from completion of the POMS at the beginning of each
season, such as with concussion testing, to formulate a
baseline for each athlete’s mood state. This baseline can
then be used throughout the season if the coaches or
athletic trainers notice a change in the athlete’s attitude
or personality that extends over a period of time. A
baseline POMS score will also allow for any psychologists
or counseling staff utilized by the athletic training staff
to monitor the athletes progress during their
rehabilitation process. Use of the POMS will help increase
collaboration between the counseling and sports medicine
departments and open up a wider variety of options for
athletes who need treatment especially since many physical
rehabilitation programs have mental aspects as well.

37

Conclusion

The results of this research showed that while
wrestlers are affected by cutting weight, it is the amount
of time spent cutting weight that is important. Wrestlers
who spend a greater number of days focused on cutting
weight on average have increased negative mood scores. This
emphasizes the need to treat each wrestler individually and
monitored for any changes in personality or attitude
throughout the season.
Wrestling places a high demand upon the body, both
physically and mentally. This demand is most evident
amongst those wrestlers who need to maintain a strict midline weight. These wrestlers need to be monitored to make
sure that they are properly cutting weight and not using
unsafe methods to reach their weight loss goals or
certification weight. Many wrestlers are aware of the
changes in personality they undergo during the season, yet
all seem to disregard these changes as no big deal. Taken
at face value these changes may be nothing, but the reality
of the matter is, the more an athlete needs to worry about
cutting weight or making a lower weight class, the more

38
likely they are to engage in risky behaviors such as eating
disorders.
The research shows that the effort to cut weight, as
much as three-fourths of the subjects found losing weight
to be fairly hard to extremely hard (Table 8), may have a
greater psychological toll than the actual cutting weight
itself. Athletic trainers, coaches, athletes, and those
involved with the sports medicine team need to be aware of
the effects of cutting weight. Athletes who spend more time
worrying about cutting weight are more likely to have
negative moods and these moods can transfer into other
aspects of their life outside of the wrestling room. This
stress can affect all aspects of the student-athletes life
ranging from social changes, the athletes interaction with
peers and friends may change, to academic, grades may
suffer as may focus and concentration in the classroom.
Athletic trainers and coaches need to be able to recognize
which athletes are not only cutting the most weight, but
which athletes have the hardest time cutting weight. The
evidence of the negative effects that cutting weight has on
mood states also identifies a potential need to include
mental health care professionals in the evaluation and care
of monitoring mood and its effects over time on both
wrestlers and other athletic populations.

39
Recommendations

Those involved with the sport of wrestling, at all
levels, should be aware of the changes that cutting weight
has on the body. These changes may not be drastically
obvious, but the smallest alteration in mood state can lead
to a number of problems both in and out of the wrestling
room.
The results of this study, while valuable, can be
limited by the number of subjects involved. Future research
could examine a broader range of athletes encompassing all
three of the NCAA Divisions. Another aspect of the POMS
that can be used is the ability to focus on specific moods
themselves (anger, depression, vigor, confusion, tension,
and fatigue). Additional research can further examine any
differences between class rank and mood state scores.
Studies can also be conducted to evaluate other
psychological alterations while cutting weight. Stresses
outside of sport such as scholarship level, general health,
and class load can also be examined to see what effects
they have on the athlete. Studies can be conducted to
examine the effect of cutting weight at various times
during the season, especially closer towards important
matches and the national championship tournaments and

40
following up post-season to examine long-term effects of
cutting weight on TMD. Long-term effects research can be
taken even further and examine the effects on a group over
the course of multiple seasons. Effects of cutting weight
may also be examined across both gender and sport.

41
REFERENCES
1)

Center for Disease Control. Hyperthermia and
dehydration-related deaths associated with
intentional rapid weight loss in three collegiate
wrestlers—North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Michigan,
November-December 1997.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00051388.htm
. Accessed July 23, 2009.

2)

Oppliger RA, Utter AC, Scott JR, Dick RW, Klossner D.
NCAA rule changes improves weight loss among national
championship wrestlers. Med Sci Sport Exer.
2006;35(5):963-970.

3)

ACC Sports Feature. Weight loss in wrestling.
http://www.theacc.com/sports/m-wrestl/specrel/120504aac.html. Accessed July 23, 2009.

4)

Oppliger RA, Nelson SA, Streen N, Scott JR. Weight
loss practices of collegiate wrestlers. Int J Sport
Nutr Exe. 2003;13:29-46.

5)

Stirling AE, Kerr GA. Perfectionism and mood states
among recreational and elite athletes. Athletic
Insight: The online journal sport psychology.
2006;8:13-27.

6)

Choma C, Sforzo G, Keller B. Impact of rapid weight
loss on cognitive function in collegiate wrestlers.
Med Sci Sport Exer [serial online]. May
1998;30(5):746-749.

7)

Finn KJ, Dolgener FA, Williams RB. Effects of
carbohydrate refeeding on physiological responses and
psychological and physical performance following
acute weight reduction in collegiate wrestlers. J
Strength Cond Res [serial online]. May
2004;18(2):328-333.

8)

Landers DM, Arent SM, Lutz RS. Affect and cognitive
performance in high school wrestlers undergoing rapid
weight loss. J Sport Exercise Psy. 2001;23:307-316.

9)

Strean WB, Strozzi-Heckler R. The body of knowledge:
somatic contributions to the practice of sport
psychology. J Appl Sport Psychol. 21:1;91-98.

42
10) Karila T, Sarkkinen P, Marttinen M, Seppälä T, Mero
A, Tallroth K. Rapid weight loss decreases serum
testosterone. Int J Sport Med [serial online].
November 2008;29(11):872-877.
11) Kukidome T, Shirai K, Kubo J, et al. MRI evaluation
of body composition changes in wrestlers undergoing
rapid weight loss. Brit J Sport Med [serial online].
October 2008;42(10):514-518
12) Buford TW, Smith DB, O’Brien MS, Warren AJ, Rossi SJ.
Seasonal changes of body mass, body composition, and
muscular performance in collegiate wrestlers.
International Journal Sports Physiology Performance.
2008;3:176-184.
13) Bubb RG. Wrestling 2009 Rulebook. The National
Collegiate Athletic Association. Indianapolis,
Indiana;2008.
14) Ransone J, Hughes B. Body-weight fluctuation in
collegiate wrestlers: implications of the national
collegiate athletic association weight-certification
program. J Athl Training [serial online]. April
2004;39(2):162-168.
15) Dale KS, Landers DM. Weight control in wrestling:
eating disorders or disordered eating? Med Sci Sport
Exer. October 1999;31(10):1382-1389.
16) Yoshioka Y, Umeda T, Nakaji S, et al. Gender
differences in the psychological response to weight
reduction in judoists. Int J Sport Nutr Exe [serial
online]. April 2006;16(2):187-198.
17) Caulfield M, Karageorghis C. Psychological effects of
rapid weight loss and attitudes towards eating among

43
professional jockeys. J Sport Sci[serial online].
July 2008;26(9):877-883.
18)

Hall C, Lane A. Effects of rapid weight loss on mood
and performance among amateur boxers. Brit J Sport
Med [serial online]. December 2001;35(6):390-395.

19) Skowron EA, Friedlander ML. Psychological separation,
self-control, and weight preoccupation among elite
women athletes. J Couns Psychol.1994;72:310-315.
20) Statistics Solutions. The Profile of Mood States.
http://www.statisticssolutions.com/Profile-of-MoodStates, Accessed November 19, 2009.
21) Raglin, J. Overtraining and staleness: Psychometric
monitoring of endurance athletes. In R.N. Singer, et
al., Handbook of Research on Sport Psychology. New
York: Macmillan;1993:840-850
22) NATA code of ethics. National athletic trainers’
association. NATA Code of Ethics.
http://www.nata.org/codeofethics/code_of_ethics.pdf.
Updated September 28, 2005. Accessed April 24, 2010.

44

APPENDICES

45

APPENDIX A
Review of Literature

46

Review of Literature

This review of literature will look at previous
literature that discusses the effects that rapid weight
loss has on both the mental and physical state of
wrestlers. Wrestling, along with other weight restricting
sports, places a high metabolic demand on the body.
Throughout a season a wrestler may undergo a wide range of
weight fluctuation both gaining and losing weight. The
rapid changing of weight, whether it is loss or gain, has
an effect on the body. Physically, rapid weight loss can
have drastic effects on the body. Mentally, rapid weight
loss can affect the athlete’s concentration, psychosocial
development, and other cognitive processes.
An increased awareness of the negative effects of
rapid weight loss resulted from events in the 1990’s. In
1997, there were 3 wrestlers who died, within weeks of each
other, because of improper weight-loss techniques. The
first wrestler started the season at 233 pounds in August
and was down to 210 only ten weeks later. The day that he
passed away, he lost 9 pounds in eight and a half hours.
The second wrestler started the season at 178 and was down
to 157 only ten weeks later with 8 pounds lost in a three

47
day period. The day he died, he lost 3.5 pounds in three
hours and his internal temperature was recorded at 108o F.
The third wrestler started the season at 180 pounds and was
down to 159 over thirteen weeks. Eleven of the 21 pounds
lost were lost over a two day period. He lost 2 pounds in
75 minutes on the day he died. All three wrestlers were
practicing while wearing outfits made of cotton and
impermeable materials to maximize sweat loss.1
This led to studies being performed on the negative
effects on the body that originate from the sudden
increases and decreases in weight. There were also
important rule changes in the NCAA.

Studies were done

discussing and examining the effects of rapid weight gain
and loss on both the physical and mental health of the
athlete. These studies examined the moods and emotions of
the wrestler, the body mass and incidence of injury while
in season and fluctuating weight.
The intent of this review of literature is to discuss
weight loss, the mental and physical effects of weight
loss, and non-wrestlers. Weight loss will be broken down
into the rules and techniques for cutting weight. The
effects of weight loss will be broken down into the
physical and psychological effects. A summary will also be
provided.

48

Weight Loss

There are different styles of wrestling; Greco-Roman,
Freestyle, Collegiate, and Submission. Each style of
wrestling has different rules involving the types of moves
allowed, how the matches are scored, and weight
requirements for the athletes. The NCAA uses the collegiate
form and has a set of rules in place to help maintain the
health and safety of the athletes in the league.

Rules for Cutting Weight
Wrestling is a sport made up of ten different weight
classes; 125 lbs., 133 lbs., 141 lbs., 149 lbs., 157 lbs.,
165 lbs., 174 lbs., 184 lbs., 197 lbs., and heavyweight
(183-285 lbs).2 It is important to note that these weight
classes apply to the collegiate level only, the weight
classes in high school wrestling differ to accommodate for
more weights. Many rules have been put into place regarding
the practice of weight loss in wrestling which look to
safeguard the well being of the athlete.
Some of the rules that affect how the athlete manages
weight include: requirements for entering data about weight
using the Optimal Performance Calculator, a weekly weigh-

49
in, the wrestlers are not able to lose more than 1.5
percent of their weight from the week before, and the
athlete is limited to their certification weight class and
the weight class above and below only. These rules have
been studied to determine their effectiveness at keeping
the athletes safe. The rules govern the amount of weight
that is allowed to be lost in a period of time, the time
frame in which this weight can be lost, the number of
weight class changes allowed to be made, and time frames in
which the athlete must be weighed in.2
Oppliger et al3 looked at how, if at all, the rule
changes made by the NCAA helped decrease chance of injury
due to rapid weight loss and gain. The study was two parts
and took a look at all three divisions in collegiate
wrestling. The first study examined the body composition
and minimal weight during pre and post event weigh-ins,
with a focus on three possible causes for weight
differences. The causes were judged to be accuracy of
assessment, the extent of weight loss to affect their
minimal weight and changes in lean mass. The subjects were
wrestlers at the national tournament with the breakdown by
division as follows; Division I had 385 participants,
Division II had 195 participants, and Division III had 231
participants. The wrestlers total body composition and

50
minimal body weight were assessed using skin fold calipers
in accordance with the NCAA rules of assessment. The
results for the first part of the test showed that the
greatest differences in pre-match and post-match body fat
were found in the heavy classes of wrestlers while the
least difference was found in the lighter classes of
wrestlers. This is to be expected as the body compositions
in general lead to these outcomes.
The second part of the Oppliger study3 examined the
rapid weight lost before the match compared to rapid weight
gained after the match. This study consisted of 600
participants with the breakdown amongst divisions at 300
Division I, 108 Division II, and 192 Division III
wrestlers. It only looked at wrestlers who progressed in
the tournament past the first day as those who lost in day
one no longer had to worry about cutting weight. No
significant difference was seen among weight classes when
looking at the rapid weight loss, but a significant
difference was found amongst divisions with Division I
averaging 1.4±0.8kg and Division II averaging 1.2±0.8kg.
Division II wrestlers were put at 0.9±0.9kg loss which was
a significant difference from both Divisions I and II.3
Another study was performed over two seasons from
1999-2000 and 2000-2001 by Ransone and Hughes.4 The study

51
involved a total of 78 male athletes. These athletes were
asked to report for testing 24 hours prior, one hour prior,
and 24 hours after their match. Their weights were recorded
each time and the amount of fluctuation each time was
noted. Significant differences were noted between 1 hour
prior and 24 hours after. These results show that after a
wrestler competes he increases his intake and this
fluctuation in weight can cause problems.4
Seven main rule changes have been put in place since
1997 that affect different parts of the sport. These rules
include establishing a weight class early in the season;
making weigh-ins closer to the match time; establishing
weigh-ins for each day of multi-day tournaments; having
weigh-ins before and after each daily practice; eliminating
tools that promote rapid hydration; encouraging CPR and
first aid for coaches; and educating about the dangers,
both acute and long term, of prolonged fasting and
dehydration. These rules benefit the wrestler in various
ways. Dr. Bryan Smith, medical consultant for the ACC,
discussed how these rules affect the sport.5 Changing the
weigh-in periods by moving them closer to match time and
having the athletes weigh-in for each day of a tournament
allows medical personnel and coaches to see which athletes
are at risk of dehydration or other adverse affects of

52
cutting weight. Encouraging coaches to be CPR and first-aid
certified and by educating the athletes themselves helps to
make both parties aware of the dangers of rapid weight loss
and dehydration while cutting weight. Scheduling weigh-ins
before and after practice helps the athletes see where they
are in regards to their hydration levels. This is
especially important in younger athletes who may not have
fully developed their ability to properly thermoregulate.

Techniques for Cutting Weight
The techniques for cutting weight are another variable
that researchers have tried to study. There are many
different ways that an athlete can cut weight including;
gradual dieting, working out in a heated room, restricting
food intake, restricting fluids, increasing exercise, and
working out while wearing sweat impermeable suits (anything
that interferes with the body’s ability to thermoregulate
properly). These techniques vary between the high school
and college level.
The differences in weight classes and the need to
maintain a strict weight lead to many different ways of
cutting weight. The differences in weight classes and the
need to maintain a strict weight lead to many different
ways of cutting weight.

53
One study by Oppliger et al6 looked at the prevalence
of ways that wrestlers cut weight and at their influences
to engage in such acts. The researchers sent out a survey
to 52 different schools in all three divisions of
collegiate wrestling. The average response rate was 19.4
per team. Each survey was voluntarily completed. The survey
examined four main areas including demographic information,
weight loss methods, competitive performance/extent of
weight loss, and assessment of eating behaviors. When
analyzing methods for cutting weight in Divisions I, II,
and III; Division II wrestlers showed a statistically
significant higher prevalence for restricting food intake.
The most prevalent methods of weight loss were gradual
dieting and increased exercise at 79.5% and 75.2%
respectively. Freshmen were more likely to participate in
the more extreme forms of weight loss such as restricting
food and working in heated wrestling rooms. Almost 50% did
say they used fasting and other drastic methods at least
once a month. These results showed that even though
wrestlers know the proper ways to lose weight, they may use
unsafe methods when they feel the need calls for them.6
Since wrestlers are under a constant stress of making
weight and cutting weight, the prevalence of disordered
eating has become a concern. These concerns lead to the

54
National Athletic Trainers’ Association to construct a
position statement setting up rules and guidelines to
detect and treat eating disorders in athletics.7

Effects of rapid weight loss

Wrestling puts a great demand on the body in physical
and mental ways. There is a delicate balance that needs to
be maintained between muscular/physical demands and the
need to keep weight restricted. This balance presents
obvious physical challenges to the body along with having
less obvious effects on the mental state of the athlete.
Athletes who participate in weight restricted sports can
compete in a class up to 10% below their normal body
weight. These weight limitations can cause decreases in
both mental and physical performances.

Physical Effects
One study by Buford et al8 examined if cutting weight
had deleterious effects on the body such as decreased
muscle mass or strength loss. They took 11 NCAA Division I
volunteers, including two national champions, from various
weight classes. Their average age was 19.45±1.13 with an
average height of 174.9±10.9cm. The athletes were tested

55
during the preseason period, a midseason test, and a
postseason test which occurred two weeks after the
conclusion of the national tournament. The mass of the
athletes was determined through the use of a physician’s
scale and their body fat percentage was measured. They were
then strength tested on a Biodex II dynamometer. Fifty
concentric, isokinetic leg extensions were performed at 180o
per second. The athlete’s hip was set at 90o of flexion and
the peak torque was computed using Newton meters divided by
their body mass in kilograms.8 When looking at body mass,
there was a significant increase in body mass from the
midseason to postseason checks at 2.9% (2.38kg). There was
a significant increase in weight of 3.8% (3.1kg) from
preseason to postseason. This could mean that the athletes
were aware of the demands on their body and adapted
accordingly.8
A second study was performed by Karila et al9 at the
Hospital Orton in Helsinki, Finland. The study wanted to
see the effects that a rapid weight reduction program had
on the body of 18 elite wrestlers. They studied the
wrestlers using blood tests both before and after the
regimen. The results of these tests showed a decrease in
both luteinizing hormone and serum testosterone. These
results, while not harmful in a short time period, can have

56
a negative effect on those athletes who are still growing,
primarily youth and high school levels.9
As wrestlers lose weight and gain weight in short
amounts of time, there are many negative effects on the
body. These effects can predispose them to injury or even
affect their growth if they are younger athletes. These
changes need to be understood to help educate the athletes
about the dangers of improper weight loss.

Psychological Effects
The psychological effects of cutting weight are less
documented, yet hold equal value when looking at effects of
rapid weight loss. The psyche of the athlete has a major
effect on their ability to participate at their fullest
potential.10 Only a few studies focused on the psychological
effects of rapid weight loss, a majority focused on the
physical effects.
One study performed by Landers et al11 looked at the
cognitive performance of high school wrestlers undergoing
rapid weight loss. There were 45 males from 14-18 years of
age (M = 16.45, SD = 1.28yrs). Of the 45 total, 31 were
actively losing weight (the experimental group) and 14 were
maintaining weight for various reasons (control group).
Fourteen of the 31 were experiencing rapid weight loss,

57

losing more than 5% of their total body fat. They were
asked to perform a battery of cognitive tests to test a
wide range of skills. These tests included choice reaction
time, Stroop tests, trail-making tests, Stroop color-word
test, digit span subtest, and a two choice reactionmovement time test. The tests were given twice and lasted
about 45 minutes each. The first session was held 5-10 days
prior to competition when the athletes were at their normal
weight and the second test was held 8-12 hours prior to
weigh-ins. The experimental group lost an average of 4.68kg
(6.34%) and the control group lost an average of .29kg
(.36%). The study found no significant decreases in
cognitive ability in the experimental group, but those
wrestlers did display a decreased affective state.11
Another study performed by researchers from the
University of Northern Iowa used 15 wrestlers from the
University’s wrestling team. These athletes were asked to
complete both mood surveys and three trials of arm workouts
before weigh-ins, right after weigh-ins and up to one hour
post weigh-ins after consuming a carbohydrate beverage or
placebo. The results showed that mood states were
negatively affected by the weight cutting while
carbohydrate loading did not affect the scores.12

58
Additionally, two other studies looked at various
affects of weight loss on both mood and cognitive
functions. The studies used elite level athletes, amateur
athletes, and collegiate wrestlers. The first study13 tested
to see if there was a correlation between mood states and
perfectionism. This correlation, if found, could explain
the drive athletes have to succeed. The authors took 44
total subjects including 24 elite athletes and 20
recreational athletes. Both groups completed a
Multidimensional Perfectionist Scale for Athletes (MPS-A)
and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) surveys.13
The second study looked at collegiate wrestlers and
the effects that rapid weight loss had on their cognitive
functions. Twenty-nine wrestlers from Ithaca College were
split into two groups, one research and one control. Both
groups were tested at baseline, rapid weight loss, and
dehydrated times. The control group was instructed to
maintain a healthy weight while the experimental group
performed rapid weight loss to ready for a competition.
Both groups were tested using the POMS and the experimental
groups showed transient mood reduction and memory
impairment in the short term.14
While testing for changes in cognition level; capacity
to focus, memory, concentration, and other mental domains

59
are important, it is equally important to realize that an
athlete may be perfectly fine in these areas and still be
affected psychologically by cutting weight. These concerns
can carry over into the athlete’s life outside of sport.
Something that can easily be overlooked is eating
disorders. According to Carter,15

(p.304)

―professionals working with college student athletes need
to be knowledgeable about disordered eating, because such
professionals will undoubtedly face this issue.‖ This is
not limited to just the collegiate level athlete. Those
health-care professionals, such as athletic trainers, who
work in all sport settings including high school, youth,
and professional may have to deal with eating disorders at
some point during their career.15 Athletics are considered
to be an interpersonal environment and these types of
environments put increasing pressure on weight, body type,
and appearances. These pressures can lead to higher risk
factors for eating disorders16 Other risk factors for
disordered eating (DE) can also be found in the world of
athletics such as excessive discipline, high pain
tolerance, and perfectionism.17 Athletes will often go to
extremes to succeed in their sport.
When discussing eating disorders, it is important to
be able to differentiate between the three main types;

60
Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN), and Eating
Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS). These can be
identified using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of
Mental Disorders (DSM-IV).18
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of
Mental Disorders,18 Anorexia Nervosa can be identified using
the following criteria; refusal to maintain body weight at
or above a minimally normal weight for age and height,
intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat even when
underweight, disturbance in the way in which one’s body
weight or shape is experienced, undue influence of body
weight or shape of self-evaluation, denial of seriousness
of current low body weight, or in post-menstrual females
the absence of at least three consecutive menstrual cycles.
Bulimia Nervosa can be identified if the patient has
recurrent episodes of binge eating, characterized by eating
a larger than normal amount of food in about a two-hour
time frame and a sense of lack of control over either
amount eaten or duration of binging during these eating
periods, compensatory behavior following these eating
periods including but not limited to self-induced vomiting,
laxatives or diuretics, and excessive exercise, selfevaluation is unjustly influenced by body shape and weight.
Bulimia Nervosa can be defined in a purging (using

61
laxatives, diuretics, etc, or self-induced vomiting) and
non-purging type (no self-induced vomiting, laxatives,
etc).18
The third type of disordered eating, Eating Disorder
Not Otherwise Specified, is the type that brings the most
concern because the criteria to diagnose this disorder are
very similar to anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. These
signs include; all criteria for AN are met except the
patient is at a normal weight despite significant weight
loss, females also have regular menses but the other signs
of AN are present, all signs of BN may be present with the
exception of the frequency of the binge eating or
compensatory actions occur less frequently than twice a
week or less than three months.18 This type of eating
disorder is the most relevant to wrestlers as they have
been shown to fast, use saunas, restricting food intake,
and increasing exercise output.6 All of these techniques can
lead to disordered eating if not properly monitored.
It is important for all involved with athletics from
teammates, to the athletic trainer, to the coaches and
athletic director to be aware of the causes, signs,
symptoms, and ways to handle any cases of eating disorders
that may arise. The National Athletic Trainers’ Association
(NATA) sets forth clearly defined, standardized educational

62
competencies that can help guide their work with athletes
in the areas of DE, nutrition, and weight management.7
According to the NATA ―Certified athletic trainers (ATC's)
are to provide for psychosocial consultation and referral
which means they are to identify potential psychosocial
pathologies (e.g., disordered eating) frequently associated
with ... athletes and refer them for appropriate diagnosis
and management,‖.19(p.421)
A survey of athletic trainers shows that amongst head
athletic trainers in the Division IA and Division IAA
settings, 78% felt their role was to identify and 97% to
help athletes with eating disorders, but only 27% felt
confident to identify and 38% felt confident enough to
confront the athlete.20 This lack of confidence makes it
important for athletic trainers to build a line of
communication not only with physicians and orthopedic
doctors, but with counselors, sport psychologists, and
psychiatrists if possible.

Non-Wrestlers

Wrestling is not the only sport which requires
athletes to manage their weight. Gymnasts, boxers, martial
artists, and jockeys are a few other types of athletes who

63

need to manage their weight carefully to compete and be
successful at their sport. Each of these sports have
different rules which dictate what an athlete is allowed to
do to cut weight and how they are allowed to cut weight.
They also have different rules which govern weigh-ins and
time frames for weight loss.
Gymnasts need to be light, quick, limber, and tiny.
These pressures can lead to increased psychological stress
and disordered views on their appearance. According to a
survey done in the NCAA in 1992, 51% of female gymnasts
reported that they felt a teammate suffered from an eating
disorder. This number was quite higher than other sports.
According to USA today, a 2002 study showed that over half
(55%) of 425 female college athletes reported that they
felt pressure to achieve or maintain a certain weight while
43% reported they were terrified of being or becoming too
heavy.22
These stresses transfer to elite female athletes as
well. A study by Skowron and Friedlander examined the
preoccupation with weight using 55 elite female swimmers.
The results of this study show that the percentage of
swimmers who reported weight preoccupation was comparable
to the general population of college women.23

64

Judoists need to be quick, agile, and flexible. They
also feel the effects that cutting weight has on the body
and mind. A study performed in Japan under Yoskioka et al24
examined differences between gender in response to weight
loss. Twenty-two males and 8 females were studied while
undergoing various forms of training. The changes in
psychology were measured using POMS scores, anthropometric
changes, and changes in nutritional intake. The POMS scores
are important in measuring the athlete’s mood state at a
given time.24
Jockeys are another class of athlete who need to worry
about their weight. The lighter the jockey, the faster the
horse can run. They are another athlete that can be
affected both physically and mentally by weight loss.
Caulfield and Karageorghis25 took 41 professional jockeys
and had them complete the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS) and the
Eating Aptitudes Test-26 (EAT-26) at three main points in
their season; minimal weight, optimal weight, and relaxed
weight. The study wanted to look at the different effects
that various stages of weight loss had on the mood states
of the jockeys. The results of this study showed that while
the jockeys were striving to get to their minimal weight,
they scored more negatively on the BRUMS.25

65
Boxers use a high amount of energy in a fairly short
amount of time. They also face the demands of weight
classes. A study conducted by Hall and Lane26 also tested
mood states after a weight loss period of one week. The
authors took 16 boxers and asked them to make their
competition weight within a week’s timeframe. The boxer’s
underwent a vigorous workout and, at the end of the week’s
time, were asked to complete the POMS questionnaire. The
results of the questionnaire showed a positive correlation
between the rapid weight loss by the boxers and a negative
mood state. This means that the more weight they had to
lose or lost, the lower their mood score was.26
The military contains some of the most physically fit
men and women in the country. Their level of fitness is
honed over time to allow them to perform at their optimal
level for an extended period of time under any given
circumstance. Their level of fitness is often attributed to
their constant working and training, but some soldiers do
worry about skipping meals to lose weight. This was
examined in a study by Harrow et al27; they surveyed
soldiers’ feelings towards weight loss. Out of the 100
soldiers surveyed, 62% were trying to lose weight during
training and 25% skipped meals to help them lose weight.
The authors examined other studies similar to theirs and

66
they found that this was a trend in many people who
considered themselves to be overweight. This may be a
problem that is encountered in weight restricted sports.27

Summary

Cutting weight is necessary in many different sports.
One of the most popular is wrestling. Wrestling places a
high metabolic demand on the body and the athlete must
balance the need for proper nutritional intake with the
need for maintaining a certain weight. There is research
showing that the effects of rapidly cutting and gaining
weight have different effects on the body along with
effects on the mind. Rapid weight loss has a negative
effect on hormone production, muscle mass, and strength
gains. Cutting weight in a short time frame also has a
negative effect on moods and to some extent cognitive
abilities such as short term memory. Wrestling isn’t the
only sport that suffers from the effects. Boxers, martial
artists, even the military all have to worry about cutting
weight and the negative effects it may have. Athletic
trainers and other health care professionals need to be
able to provide all types of care for their patients
including psychological help to some extent.

67

APPENDIX B
The Problem

68

The Problem

Mood states can affect a person’s physical and mental
health. Wrestlers, along with other athletes in weight
restricting sports, are under a constant pressure to cut
weight and make weight for their next match. Not only do
wrestlers have the constant mental stress of worrying about
whether or not they will make the weight for their next
match, they have the physical stress of trying to make that
weight. During a season wrestlers may undergo a wide range
of weight fluctuation of both weight loss and weight gain,
often in a short period of time. The rapid changing of
weight, whether it is loss or gain, has an effect on the
body. Physically, rapid weight loss can have drastic
effects on the body. Mentally, rapid weight loss can affect
the athlete’s concentration and cognitive performance.
Cutting weight has been shown to have a negative
effect on both the physical aspects and mental aspects of a
wrestler. Physically, rapidly cutting weight can decrease
muscle mass and lead to strength losses7,8 leading to
greater chance of injury. Mentally, the effects of rapid
weight loss can be seen in the cognitive abilities, mood
states, and affective state of the athlete.9,10,12,13

69
The purpose of this study is to examine relationships
between the number of days cutting weight and mood states
and to see if there is a difference between weight classes
for mood state scores.

Definition of Terms
To better understand this specific study, some terms
must be operationally defined. The following definitions of
terms will be defined for this study:
1) Cutting Weight – the process of losing weight to
qualify for a weight class below the athlete’s natural
weight.6
2) Mood States - mild, pervasive, and generalized
affective states that are perceived subjectively by
individuals.28
3) Profile of Mood States - a test designed to measure
certain psychological traits. These traits are tension
(anxiety), depression (dejection), anger hostility),
vigor (activity), fatigue (inertia), and confusion
(bewilderment).29
4) Weight Class- defined by the main weight that the
subject wrestles as set by the NCAA.2 For the purpose
of this study, lightweight includes 125 and 133
pounds. Middleweight includes 141, 149, 157, 165, 174,

70
and 184 pounds. Heavyweight includes 197 pounds up to
285 pounds.
Basic Assumptions
The following basic assumptions will be made for this
study:
1) The subjects will understand all questions in the
survey.
2) The subjects will answer all questions honestly and to
the best of their ability.
3) The subjects will be able to accurately recall their
weight cutting over the past 7 days.
4) The subjects will be able to accurately recall their
weight cutting over the past 30 days.
Limitations of the Study
The following are possible limitations of the study:
1) The number of subjects may vary for each team.
2) Factors outside cutting weight may have an effect on
mood state.
3) The results may not be easily generalized amongst all
three divisions of wrestling.
Delimitations of the Study
1) Subjects are members of an NCAA competitive wrestling
team.

71
2) All subjects participate at the NCAA Division III
level.
Significance of the Study
Knowledge about how mood state changes affect athletes
can help health care professionals. For example, it may
help athletic trainers provide better care for athletes who
may be at higher risk for illness or injury.
Many athletic trainers are the first line care for
athletes. Athletes trust in their athletic trainers not
only to help treat and rehabilitate any injuries they incur
during their season, the athletic trainer can also be a
friend and confidant. This relationship can lead to the
athletic trainer finding themselves in a role of
psychologist. This also means that the athletic trainer
needs to be able to help the athlete with any psychological
problems they may experience or know when the problems are
outside their scope of practice and refer the patient for
more advanced care.
The knowledge gained from this study will hopefully
allow coaches, athletic trainers, athletes, counselors,
sports psychologists, and other health care professionals
to more closely monitor the health and well-being of those
wrestlers who cut weight on a regular basis. These people

72
have an ethical responsibility to provide the best care to
their patients as possible.
This information may also be valuable to those who
deal with the student-athlete such as teachers, professors,
principals, and school administrators. The relationship
between weight loss and mental condition can bridge the gap
into social and educational settings too. If an athlete is
experiencing mood swings, lack of concentration, lack of
focus, or other mental shortcomings during their season,
the athlete may see negative effects on his relationships
with family, friends, and associates.

73

APPENDIX C
Additional Methods

74

APPENDIX C1
Informed Consent Form

75

Informed Consent Form
1. Neil G Matz, who is a Graduate Athletic Training Student
at California University of Pennsylvania, has requested my
participation in a research study at California University
of Pennsylvania. The title of the research is Mood States
of Division III Collegiate Wrestlers.
2. I have been informed that the purpose of this study is
to examine relationships between the number of days cutting
weight per 7 and 30 day period and the mood states of the
wrestler. I understand that I must be 18 years of age or
older to participate. I understand that I have been asked
to participate along with 100 other individuals because I
am active on my college/university wrestling squad.
3. I have been invited to participate in this research
project. My participation is voluntary and I can choose to
discontinue my participation at any time without penalty or
loss of benefits. My participation will be answering a
series of questions involving some demographic questions
and the completing of the Profile Of Mood States (POMS)
survey.
4. I understand there are no foreseeable risks or
discomforts to me if I agree to participate in the study.
5. There are no feasible alternative procedures available
for this study.
6. I understand that the possible benefits of my
participation in the research may not affect me directly
but that knowledge gained may benefit future athletes,
especially wrestlers, by allowing health care professionals
to better understand the effect of cutting weight on the
wrestler’s mental state.
8. I understand that the results of the research study may
be published but my name or identity will not be revealed.
Only aggregate data will be reported. In order to maintain
confidentially of my records, Neil G Matz will maintain all
documents in a secure location on campus and password
protect all electronic files so that only the student
researcher and research advisor can access the data. Each

76
subject will be given a specific subject number to
represent his or her name so as to protect the anonymity of
each subject.
9. I have been informed that I will not be compensated for
my participation.
10. I have been informed that any questions I have
concerning the research study or my participation in it,
before or after my consent, will be answered by:
Neil G Matz ATC
STUDENT/PRIMARY RESEARCHER
Mat2900@calu.edu
(570)401-2759
Carol M. Biddington, EdD
RESEARCH ADVISOR
Biddington@calu.edu
(724) 938-4562
11. I understand that written responses may be used in
quotations for publication but my identity will remain
anonymous.
12. I have read the above information and am electing to
participate in this study. The nature, demands, risks, and
benefits of the project have been explained to me. I
knowingly assume the risks involved, and understand that I
may withdraw my consent and discontinue participation at
any time without penalty or loss of benefit to myself. In
signing this consent form, I am not waiving any legal
claims, rights, or remedies. A copy of this consent form
will be given to me upon request.
13. This study has been approved by the California
University of Pennsylvania Institutional Review Board.
14. The IRB approval dates for this project are from:
02/26/2010-02/26/2011.
Subject's signature:___________________________________
Date:____________________
Witness signature:___________________________________
Date:____________________

77

APPENDIX C2
Profile Of Moods State and Demographic Information
Survey

78
Code:
Profile of Mood States Survey
Directions: Please complete the following questions.
When an answer has a blank line after it, enter in an
appropriate numerical value. When an answer has multiple
choices, circle the most appropriate answer.
1. What is your age? _______
2. What is your class rank?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.

Redshirt Freshman
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Redshirt (other)

3. What is your certification weight class? ______
4. How many pounds do you fluctuate between matches? ___
5. At the time of this survey, what do you weigh? ____
6. Are you a normal starter at your certification weight
class?
a. Yes
b. No
7. If no to question 6, are you the alternate wrestler
for your weight class?
a. Yes
b. No
8. Are you currently cutting weight at the time of this
survey?
a. Yes
b. No
9. Do you normally worry about cutting weight during your
off season?
a. Yes
b. No

79
10.
How many days, out of the past 7 days, did you
cut weight? ______
11.
How many days, out of the past 30 days, did you
cut weight? _____
12.

How hard do you typically work to cut weight?
Not hard at all
A little effort
Fairly hard
Quite a bit of work
Extremely hard
13.
What is your personal win/loss record for your
career at your current school?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

Directions: Please describe How You Feel RIGHT NOW by
circling one number after each of the words listed below:
Feeling
Friendly
Tense
Angry
Worn Out
Unhappy
Clear-headed
Lively
Confused
Sorry for things
Shaky
Listless
Peeved
Considerate
Sad
Active
On edge
Grouchy
Blue
Energetic
Panicky
Hopeless
Relaxed
Unworthy
Spiteful
Sympathetic
Uneasy

Not at all
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

A little
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2

Mod.
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

Quite a bit
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4

Extremely
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5

80
Restless
Unable to concentrate

Fatigued
Helpful
Annoyed
Discouraged
Resentful
Nervous
Lonely
Miserable
Muddled
Cheerful
Bitter
Exhausted
Anxious
Ready to fight
Good-natured
Gloomy
Desperate
Sluggish
Rebellious
Helpless
Weary
Bewildered
Alert
Deceived
Effacious
Trusting
Full of pep
Bad-tempered
Worthless
Forgetful
Carefree
Terrified
Guilty
Vigorous
Uncertain
Bushed

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1

2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2

3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3

4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4

Approved by the California University of Pennsylvania IRB
on 2/26/2010.

5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5

81

APPENDIX C3
Letter to
Coaches

82
October 29, 2009
To Coach (coach’s name here),
Hello, my name is Neil Matz and I am a graduate
student at California University of Pennsylvania. Part of
the requirements for graduation is the completion of a
thesis. My thesis is titled, ―The Mood States of Division
III Collegiate Wrestlers‖. I would like to see if there is
a relationship between the amounts of time spent cutting
weight in a season and the mood state of a wrestler.
I am a former student at King’s College where I
graduated with my Bachelor’s of Science degree in athletic
training this past May. During my time at King’s, I had the
opportunity to work with both the King’s College and Wilkes
University wrestling teams.
I would like to survey your current wrestling team as
part of my thesis. No harm would come to the athlete and
all that is required of them would be to fill out a survey
consisting of demographic questions and the Profile of Mood
States or POMS survey. The POMS is a reliable survey often
used in athletics to measure various effects on mood state.
The survey would be distributed by myself at a time
and date agreed upon by you and myself. I would visit each
school to distribute the survey. The survey should take no
more than 20 minutes to complete and I would like to survey
the entire team. I can meet either before or after a
practice depending on what is convenient for you.
No personal information that can identify the athlete
will be asked. There will be no direct benefit or
consequence from your athlete’s participation, but the
information obtained will hopefully allow athletic trainers
and other medical professionals to more easily identify
athletes that are at risk of injury or illness during their
season.
This email will be used to obtain final IRB approval
at California University of Pennsylvania and I will be
contacting you at a later date to set up a meeting time. I
would like to note that by giving your permission to survey
your teams, each athlete will have the individual ability
to either answer or deny completion of the survey with no
personal consequences.
By returning this email, you give your permission to
survey your wrestlers at (school’s name here) in my study. I look
forward to hearing from you.

83

APPENDIX C4
Institutional Review Board –
California University
of Pennsylvania

84

85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94
Institutional Review Board
California University of Pennsylvania
Psychology Department LRC, Room 310
250 University Avenue
California, PA 15419
instreviewboard@cup.edu
instreviewboard@calu.edu
Robert Skwarecki, Ph.D., CCC-SLP,Chair

Neil Matz,
Please consider this email as official notification that your proposal titled “Mood
States of Division III Collegiate Wrestlers” (Proposal #09-042) has been
approved by the California University of Pennsylvania Institutional Review
Board as amended.
The effective date of the approval is 2-26-2010 and the expiration date is 226-2011. These dates must appear on the consent form .
Please note that Federal Policy requires that you notify the IRB promptly regarding
any of the following:
(1) Any additions or changes in procedures you might wish for your
study (additions or changes must be approved by the IRB before
they are implemented)
(2) Any events that affect the safety or well-being of subjects
(3) Any modifications of your study or other responses that are
necessitated by any events reported in (2).
(4) To continue your research beyond the approval expiration date of
2-26-2011 you must file additional information to be considered for
continuing review. Please contact instreviewboard@calu.edu
Please notify the Board when data collection is complete.
Regards,
Robert Skwarecki, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Chair, Institutional Review Board

95

APPENDIX C5
IRB Requested Follow-up Letter to Coaches

96

February 23, 2010
Dear Coach,
I would like to thank you for allowing me to talk to your team for my graduate
thesis titled “Mood States of Division III Wrestler.” I would like to emphasize that you
as the coach are merely giving permission for your team to be asked to volunteer. I
would like to be clear that you as the coach are not to be involved in
recruiting/requiring/coercing potential subjects. Each athlete will be allowed to
individually decide if they wish to participate or not and may choose not to participate
with no consequence to them.
Once I talk to the athletes and explain the purpose of my study, those who wish to
participate will be given a packet containing the survey itself and an informed consent
form. Those who do not wish to participate will be allowed to head to practice as normal.
No athlete shall be required by myself or your staff to participate.
If an athlete chooses midway through the completion of the survey that they no
longer wish to complete it, again, no consequences will befall them and their survey will
be torn up and thrown out to protect privacy.
Sincerely,
Neil Matz

97

APPENDIX C6
Letter to Meet
Coaches

98

December 11, 2009
Dear Coach,
Hello, my name is Neil Matz and I am a graduate
student at California University of Pennsylvania. Part of
the requirements for graduation is the completion of a
thesis. My thesis is titled, ―The Mood States of Division
III Collegiate Wrestlers‖. I would like to see if there is
a relationship between the amounts of time spent cutting
weight in a season and the mood state of a wrestler.
I am contacting you as previously discussed to set up
a meeting time during which I can survey your team. I would
like to set up at time between DATE and DATE when most of
the team can be there.
I would just like to remind you that no harm would come to
the athlete and all that is required of them would be to
fill out a survey consisting of demographic questions and
the Profile of Mood States or POMS survey. The POMS is a
reliable survey often used in athletics to measure various
effects on mood state.
The survey would be distributed by myself and should
take no more than 20 minutes to complete.
Please get back to me at your earliest convinence. I
can be reached via email or telephone, both of which are
attached.
Thank you for your time,
Neil G Matz ATC
Mat2900@calu.edu
570-401-2759

99
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103
ABSTRACT
Title:

MOOD STATES OF DIVISION III COLLEGIATE
WRESTLERS

Researcher:

Neil G. Matz

Advisor:

Dr. Carol Biddington

Date:

April 2010

Research Type: Master’s Thesis
Purpose:

The purpose of this study is to examine
relationships between the number of days
cutting weight and mood states and to see if
there is a difference between weight classes
for mood state scores.

Problem:

There is little research on the
psychological effects of cutting weight.

Methods:

A descriptive type of research was
conducted. Fifty-six male collegiate
wrestlers from four NCAA Division III
schools volunteered for the study. The
Profile of Moods States survey was used.

Findings:

The number of days spent cutting weight had
a significant relationship with the mood
states of wrestlers. Additionally, the more
effort a wrestler puts forward to cut weight
the more negative the mood state.

Conclusions:

Wrestlers who cut weight more frequently or
who expend more effort losing weight have an
increased negative mood state. This suggests
that athletic trainers and health care
professionals may need to develop further
collaboration with mental health care
professionals to assist with athletes
showing mood disturbances from the weight
loss that occurs during a wrestling season.

Word Count:

195